Guwahati’s air quality has deteriorated to “very poor” levels in the past few days along with a sudden drop in temperatures after brief respite from harsh winter.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city touched 306 on January 9 categorised as very poor. Specific areas like IIT-G and Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport also recorded AQI in the poor zone of 280 and 278 respectively.
Regional Meteorological Centre experts said low temperatures and cloud cover trap pollutants, preventing dispersion into the atmosphere – leading to smog-like conditions. This has impacted visibility on roads.
Ongoing infrastructural projects across Guwahati have further aggravated construction dust and emissions – posing health hazards like respiratory issues among citizens.
While the day temperature has been around 22 degrees Celsius, nights are expected to dip to 11 degrees – a nearly 10 degree fall as per IMD predictions.
Locals have complained of breathing difficulties, sneezing fits and low visibility while commuting – especially early mornings/late nights.
Authorities face mounting pressure to tackle air pollution amid worsening climatic conditions over the past week in Guwahati. Improved monitoring and dust control measures offer hope for some relief to affected citizens.