Mumbai woke up under a blanket of haze on Sunday, with air quality deteriorating across several parts of the city as winter conditions and pollution combined to push AQI readings into the ‘moderate’ range.
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Bandra Reclamation area recorded an AQI of 154, while Bandra Kurla Complex logged 157 at 9 am. The haze was visibly thicker along arterial roads and low-lying pockets, prompting concerns among morning commuters.
Air quality monitors across the city showed varied but largely concerning readings: Chembur registered 182, Ghatkopar 161, Kurla 126, and Chakala–Andheri East 114. Coastal and western neighbourhoods saw relatively cleaner air, with Mazgaon at 91 and Malad West at 51, though still affected by the lingering morning smog. As per CPCB standards, AQI between 101 and 200 is classified as ‘moderate’—a level at which sensitive groups may experience discomfort and prolonged outdoor exposure is discouraged.
The hazy conditions are expected to persist through the day, officials said, as pollution levels rise and winter temperatures drop, limiting dispersion of particulate matter. Authorities have urged residents, especially children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions, to take precautions during peak morning hours.
Delhi Battles ‘Severe’ Pollution
Delhi, meanwhile, remained choked under ‘severe’ pollution, with the capital’s average AQI hitting 461 at 7 am despite GRAP-IV curbs. Visibility dropped sharply across Ghazipur, ITO and Anand Vihar as toxic smog lingered, while several areas, including Bawana (497), Narela (492), Okhla Phase 2 (474) and Anand Vihar (491), recorded near-maximum pollution levels.
Even the lowest reading, NSIT Dwarka at 411, stayed in the ‘severe’ category, highlighting the capital’s deepening air crisis.
