Sharp increase in the city’s air pollution levels

Aurangabad, Oct 24: As citizen movement was restored in the city after relaxations were given from lockdown under Mission Begin Again, the air pollution levels in the city have also increased sharply. The particulate matter levels in the ambient air recorded by the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) reflect this change in air quality from good to moderate during and after the lockdown in the city.

The pollution levels had dropped considerably since only essential services were allowed during the lockdown. The ambient air quality in the city was recorded as good. This started changing when in the first week of June, the state government gave permissions to some businesses and activities as a part of ''Mission Begin Again''. The air pollution level has slightly increased due to these activities being restored. The MPCB has recorded air quality between 50 to 90 µg/m³ in the period of October 15 to 23. it was observed that the rainfall during this period has helped to keep the pollution levels down. Climate expert, Shivam Barule said, “Our observations have revealed that the PM2.5 and Nitrogen Oxide levels in several cities including Aurangabad had significantly increased after unlocking. However, the pollution level is still under control due to rainfall over the month.”