Experts blame low temp for 'poor' AQI

Mumbai's Air Quality Index (AQI) continues to remain a cause of worry for citizens as on Monday the overall AQI for the city was reported to be 257. As per System of Air Quality Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) an AQI between 200 to 300 is rated in the 'poor' category and is known to cause respiratory-related allergies.

In fact as per air quality experts from SAFAR, on Monday AQI of PM2.5, which is the smallest size pollutant known to cause respiratory illnesses and worsens the condition of those suffering from ailments like asthma and bronchitis in the four centers including Borivili, BKC, Andheri and Mazgaon reported 'Very Poor' air quality. Bandra Kurla Complex (332) topped the list followed by Borivili (325) Andheri (322) and Mazgaon (313). The safe limit as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for PM2.5 is 60 µg/m3 for 24 hours

While air quality experts blamed lower temperatures in Mumbai, they also said that the haze-like condition was due to the high difference between the maximum and minimum temperatures. "Several parts especially central Mumbai are facing haze-like conditions throughout the day due to the lower temperature early in the morning while the dust particles get stuck to the moisture and remain in the air throughout the day," said an official.

On Monday, the minimum temperature in Mumbai was recorded at Santacruz, which was 16.5 degree Celsius while the maximum temperature was also at Santacruz which was recorded as 32.4 degree Celsius.