Mumbai air quality has worsened significantly in the first few days of January 2026, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping from 'satisfactory'
to 'moderate' and even 'poor' in certain areas. On Sunday, the AQI in Mumbai reached 140, a notable increase from 106 the previous day, and higher than the 79 recorded on Friday and 90 on Thursday. Meteorological officials have warned that hazardous air conditions may persist for the next 24 hours, advising citizens to limit outdoor exposure, particularly children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues.
Thane and Navi Mumbai Also Affected
Thane experienced a similar decline, with its AQI rising to 124 from 82 on January 1. Navi Mumbai, which reported AQIs of 99 and 86 on January 1 and 2, respectively, deteriorated to an average of 151 by Sunday. The situation has raised concerns among residents and environmental experts alike.
What's Causing Toxic Air in Mumbai?
According to experts cited by a TOI report, the worsening air quality is attributed to a combination of unfavourable winter conditions and persistent dust pollution. Several localities reported pollution levels exceeding city averages. In Mumbai, Byculla recorded the highest AQI at 184, while the vicinity of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport saw an AQI of 167. In Navi Mumbai, some areas fell into the 'poor' category, with Nerul recording an AQI of 206 and Sanpada reaching 215.
Also Read: Greed, Gratuity and a Railway Job: Thane Woman Kills Daughter-in-Law, Dumps Body then Files Missing Report
Mumbai Weather Today
Mumbai woke up to a hazy sky on Monday (January 5), with temperatures dropping. The minimum temperature is likely to drop to 19 degrees Celsius, with the maximum going to 32 degrees Celsius.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted "Partly cloudy sky with haze". However, no alerts have been issued by the weather department.
