Indore air quality worsens amid stubble burning, dust & traffic emissions

Indore: Air quality in Indore has shown signs of deterioration in recent days, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) slipping into higher bands amid a rise in stubble burning incidents in and around the city, along with increased dust and traffic emissions.Data from monitoring agencies indicates that AQI levels have remained in the moderate to poor category on multiple days this month, with readings rising from around 120 in early April to a spike of 229, before settling in the 140-155 range in recent days. Officials said seasonal stubble burning in the Malwa belt, coupled with dust and vehicular emissions, is contributing to the trend.Data shows AQI climbed to 229 on April 9, the highest this month. Readings remained high at 155 on April 12 and 148 on April 13, indicating sustained pressure on air quality. Officials said seasonal stubble burning in the Malwa belt, along with dust and vehicular emissions, is contributing to the trend.MP Pollution Control Board Indore regional officer Satish Chokse said that AQI levels elevated due to multiple factors. "AQI is on the higher side due to dust and wind conditions. We are sending daily area-specific reports of stubble burning to the agriculture department for action at the ground level," he said.Experts said Indore's prolonged stay in the ‘moderate' category should not be seen as safe, as the city remains vulnerable to slipping into poorer air quality levels with even minor triggers.MP Pollution Control Board former chief chemist D K Wagela said, "Moderate AQI is not a comfort zone. It is a warning stage. With stubble burning and traffic emissions, even a short spell of adverse weather can push pollution levels sharply higher."Officials said road dust, construction activity and vehicular congestion continue to be the major contributors to particulate pollution throughout the year.