On 22nd February, Wednesday, the primary pollutant, PM2.5 has been recorded at 106 g/m3 at 7:00am in the morning, which exceeds the safe limits set by the World Health Organization. According to sources, few spots across the city witnessed 318 AQI drop.
The air quality which is deteriorating with each passing day is currently one of the major cause of concern. People residing inside the city are breathing pollution each second which will result in hazardous respiratory diseases. Reports have arrived where many minors have been admitted in the Guwahati Medical College and Hospital due to respiratory issues really to the ongoing air pollution.
People are advised to stay indoors as much as possible, keep the doors and windows closed and use air purifiers if possible. On 21st February, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) National AQI bulletin revealed that the PM 2.5 and PM 10 pollutants came down to an unhealthy level in Railway Colony monitoring station at around 7pm.
On 8th of February, Guwahati witnessed an extreme deterioration in air quality index in several areas. The prime cause behind this is due to the ongoing construction activity and lack of rainfall. There was severe levels of smog and high intensity pollution leading to low visibility and burning eyes.
The air outside is evidently very toxic for the people as it affects the respiratory system, leading to higher risk of respiratory infections and diseases like asthma and lung infections. Additionally, the fluctuations in weather have accumulated the pollutants in the air, making the scenario worst in Guwahati.
The National Green Tribunal (NTR) has recently urged the Assam government to form a committee to prepare a road map in order to fight the issue of air pollution and disposal of solid waste materials. NTR has issued an application regarding the same. The NGT in its order stated that, the concerned committee shall keep a check on the Air Quality of the city along with other parts of Assam on a regular basis.
It further asserts that it is a constitutional responsibility of all states and local authorities to ensure a pollution free environment for it’s citizens.
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