Bhopal: Air quality deteriorated in several cities across Madhya Pradesh following Diwali celebrations, with monitoring stations recording elevated pollution levels.
According to station-wise readings cited in local reports, Bhopal’s TT Nagar monitoring station recorded an AQI of 314 at 3am, compared with 150 at 10pm. Eidgah Hills recorded 263, up from 140, while Paryavaran Parisar registered 302, compared with 213.
Gwalior recorded some of the state’s highest readings. Deendayal Nagar registered an AQI of 363, while Maharaj Bada and City Centre recorded 337 and 329, respectively.
In Indore, Chhoti Gwaltoli recorded 338 and Magoda Nagar 316. Jabalpur’s Marhatal and Suhagi stations registered 328 and 303, respectively.
Separately, Madhya Pradesh Pollution Control Board data reported by Amar Ujala showed Bhopal’s 24-hour average AQI at TT Nagar reaching 355 on November 9. Paryavaran Parisar recorded 296 and the Collectorate area 301. These readings cover a different period from the overnight figures.
Under India’s national AQI classification, readings between 301 and 400 fall into the ‘very poor’ category. Prolonged exposure at these levels can cause respiratory discomfort, particularly among children, older people and those with existing health conditions.
Fine particulate matter (PM2.5), reported at several affected stations, can penetrate deep into the lungs and affect respiratory health.
