GUWAHATI: Guwahati has been recording largely favourable air quality over the past week, with daily index values ranging from 'Good' to 'Satisfactory'.
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According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on Thursday, May 1, the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 88 under the ‘Satisfactory’ category, showing a slight increase from previous days but still within acceptable limits.
In the days leading up to May, Guwahati consistently recorded 'Good' air quality levels, including values of 34, 44, and 49 between April 28 and April 30. Earlier in the month, the city did witness comparatively higher readings, with AQI levels touching 93 on April 25 and 112 on April 24—the only day in the past ten to fall under the ‘Moderate’ category.
Nevertheless, experts have attributed the favourable air quality since the past few days to prevailing weather conditions. While large parts of India are currently grappling with severe heatwaves and temperatures exceeding 44°C, the Northeastern city has been experiencing relatively cool, cloudy weather. Maximum temperatures in the city have hovered around 31°C, with frequent spells of rainfall and gusty winds providing natural air purification.
According to the IMD, further light to moderate rainfall has been expected to continue, as such frequent downpours have contributed to disperse the city’s primary air pollutants, particularly PM2.5 and PM10, which have typically elevated due to ongoing construction activity over the months.
However, it needs to be noted that Guwahati’s current air quality levels could go for a dive as soon as dry weather conditions return, or a potential increase in urban emissions could also reverse the city’s gains. Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious in this regard.
