Gwalior most polluted city in Madhya Pradesh: IIT Indore study

Air pollution in Madhya Pradesh (MP) has reached dangerous levels, according to a new IIT Indore study. Gwalior is the most polluted city, with poor air quality for 69 days annually. Rewa follows with 64 days, Bhopal with 30 days, and Indore with 20 days.

The study highlights two main reasons for the alarming rise in pollution: more vehicles on the roads and emissions from industries. These factors are seriously harming air quality in many cities across the state.

The IIT Indore study found that Gwalior’s annual average PM 2.5 level was 44.77 µg/m³, nine times higher than the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) safe standard of 5 µg/m³.  The annual average of PM 2.5 here was found to be 44.77 µg/m³ (micrograms per cubic meter). The maximum level reached 177.85 µg/m³.

The study showed worsening pollution levels in Bhopal and Indore. Bhopal had 30 days of unhealthy air, while Indore had 20. Ratlam and Chhindwara had better air quality.

Pollution increasing rapidly in MP 

The study covered data from 1980 to 2023 and found that air pollution in Madhya Pradesh has worsened significantly. Twenty years ago, major cities like Gwalior and Indore had 1–2 days of bad air annually. Today, that number is dozens of days every year.

In Gwalior, researchers observed the direct impact of pollution from coal-powered factories and pollution carried by winds from Delhi.

The research team, led by Professor Manish Goyal and scholar Kuldeep Singh Rautela, used satellite data and artificial intelligence (AI) models to analyse air quality. This technology provided accurate insights into pollution changes over time in 10 major cities of Madhya Pradesh, including Gwalior, Rewa, Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, and Ratlam.

What is PM 2.5 and why is it dangerous?

PM 2.5 refers to fine airborne particles small enough to enter the lungs and bloodstream. They’re produced by vehicle exhaust, factory emissions, construction, and burning coal or wood.

The health risks associated with PM 2.5 are severe. It can cause respiratory problems like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchitis. Long-term exposure increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. For pregnant women, it can lead to premature births and even infant deaths.

The study, led by Professor Manish Goyal and research scholar Kuldeep Singh Rautela, noted that Gwalior’s pollution levels are influenced by local coal-powered factories and pollution from Delhi.

With air pollution escalating in Madhya Pradesh’s cities, decisive action is needed. Residents, authorities, and policymakers must collaborate to safeguard public health and the environment.

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