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HomeUrban NewsAhmedabadAhmedabad Grapples with Air Pollution as AQI Levels Surge

Ahmedabad Grapples with Air Pollution as AQI Levels Surge

Ahmedabad Grapples with Air Pollution as AQI Levels Surge

The air quality in Ahmedabad has taken a sharp nosedive in recent weeks, with residents across the city beginning to feel the harsh effects of deteriorating air conditions. Pradyuman Nambiyar, a working professional in the city, is among the many individuals facing respiratory problems, exacerbated by the rising levels of pollution. The maximum Air Quality Index (AQI) readings for the city reached alarming figures of 168 and 157 on Monday and Tuesday, respectively, pushing the air quality into the “unhealthy” category. This surge in pollution is a cause for concern, especially given the ongoing challenges posed by seasonal weather shifts.

According to data from AQI.in, a real-time air quality monitoring platform, several areas in Ahmedabad are grappling with high pollution levels. The highest AQI readings recorded over the past 24 hours included 166 at SVPI Airport in Hansol, 174 at Usmanpura, and 168 at CP Nagar in Ghatlodia. These figures suggest a worrying trend, particularly as the PM2.5 particulate matter levels have also spiked, reaching 81µg/m³ — far above the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limit of 15µg/m³. The rising levels of these fine particles pose serious health risks to the city’s residents, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

The implications of this deteriorating air quality are far-reaching. Doctors have raised alarm about the increasing number of patients seeking medical help for respiratory problems, with many of them being exposed to the toxic air on a daily basis, either due to commuting or outdoor work. Dr. Pragnesh Vachharajani, National Secretary of the Federation of Family Physicians Association of India (FFPAI), emphasized that the elderly and those with chronic health conditions are particularly at risk. He noted, “Patients with asthma, poor immunity, or respiratory issues are approaching us more frequently as the air quality continues to worsen. For these individuals, the air pollution is becoming a silent yet deadly threat to their health. We urge them to take extra precautions, including avoiding crowded areas and maintaining a healthy diet.”

According to experts, the current AQI levels in Ahmedabad are equivalent to smoking 17 cigarettes a week, or 72 cigarettes a month, underscoring the significant health risks of prolonged exposure. The “unhealthy” category (AQI between 151-200) poses severe risks to vulnerable groups, including children, pregnant women, and the elderly, potentially leading to respiratory and cardiovascular issues. As pollution levels continue to rise, there is growing concern about the long-term health consequences for the city’s residents. Health experts have advised sensitive groups to minimise outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution hours, to mitigate the adverse effects of this environmental crisis.

Sustainability Concerns and Urgent Call for Action

The situation in Ahmedabad highlights a critical issue that many urban centres in India are facing—rising pollution levels and the health crisis that accompanies them. While the city’s rapid urbanisation and vehicular growth have contributed significantly to this decline in air quality, experts argue that a more sustainable approach to development is urgently needed. With pollution levels on the rise, the need for cleaner energy solutions, better waste management systems, and stricter regulations on industrial emissions has never been more pressing.

The government and city authorities must prioritise efforts to mitigate air pollution by promoting green initiatives, such as expanding public transportation, increasing the green cover, and adopting renewable energy sources. As cities like Ahmedabad continue to grow, it’s vital that sustainability becomes a cornerstone of urban planning. Cleaner air is not just a luxury but a necessity for the health and well-being of residents, and addressing this issue will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including the government, businesses, and citizens.

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