Why Mumbai AQI is deteriorating in October?

As Mumbai transitions into October, the city’s air quality has worsened, leaving residents facing smoggy skies and rising pollution. On October 2, 2024, Mumbai recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) rise from a ‘Good’ level of 40-50 to a ‘Moderate’ range of 101 across most areas. The worst-hit areas, like Mulund, reported AQI as high as 194, classified as “poor.”

Mumbai's air quality worsens drastically

The decline in air quality is due to the withdrawal of the southwest monsoon, changing wind patterns, and stagnant weather, preventing pollutant dispersion. Mumbai, usually known for clear air during the monsoon, is now facing a sharp decline in AQI due to a shift towards drier weather and winds carrying moisture-laden pollutants.

Environmental experts cite critical factors contributing to this decline. Dr. Gufran Beig, senior scientist and former project director of the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), emphasized the delayed onset of La Niña as a significant cause. La Niña usually brings stronger winds to disperse pollutants in northern and western India. However, with the phenomenon delayed until late October or November, stagnant surface winds are likely to worsen air quality.

After the retreating monsoon, changed wind patterns reduced surface wind speeds, allowing pollutants to accumulate closer to the ground. Stagnant pollutants, drying soil, and increased dust from a lack of rain have worsened the city's air quality.

Low winds, mist trap pollutants

IMD Chief Scientist Sunil Kamble highlighted the link between reduced wind speeds and recent visibility issues. “Low wind speeds and moisture form mist, reducing visibility and trapping pollutants,” he explained. As a result, the city is blanketed in haze, impacting air quality and visibility.

Environmentalists are concerned about the approaching winter. Sumaira Abdulali, convenor of the Awaaz Foundation, warned that pollution levels could worsen during the winter, as they do each year. “While the AQI has crossed 100 in multiple parts of Mumbai, we expect conditions to worsen as the colder season and festival activities increase pollution,” she said.

The city has seen a rise in construction activities, vehicular emissions, and dust from unpaved roads, contributing to current pollution levels. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the government have proposed measures to reduce pollution, including curbing construction dust and promoting cleaner vehicles, but enforcement remains a challenge.

Air pollution in Mumbai not seasonal

According to Avinash Kumar Chanchal, a Greenpeace campaign manager, Mumbai’s pollution levels consistently exceed safe air quality standards year-round. Vehicular pollution, industrial emissions, road dust, and biomass burning are primary contributors to the city’s air pollution crisis.

Chanchal urges the government to adopt long-term strategies, like investing in sustainable public transportation and limiting private vehicle use. “The city needs to prioritize mass transportation and consider fare-free public transport to reduce reliance on private vehicles,” he added.

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