Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, April 7: Coastal cities Mangaluru and Udupi led a noticeable improvement in air quality across Karnataka on Monday, even as experts cautioned that pollution levels in many regions continue to remain unhealthy.
After days of hazardous conditions, air quality in several parts of the state, including Bengaluru, has begun to improve. The air, which was until recently difficult and unsafe to breathe, is now showing better readings, offering partial relief to residents. However, specialists warn that the overall situation still warrants concern.
Mangaluru and Udupi were among the cities to record better air quality.
Representational image
Bengaluru, which had plunged to severely poor levels just days ago, registered an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 97. Despite the improvement, the city’s air quality “continues to be harmful to health,” experts said.
While AQI figures have shown slight fluctuations compared to previous days, experts pointed out that, as per World Health Organization (WHO) standards, the current levels still fall within a range that can adversely impact health.
Air Quality Index (AQI) in Karnataka Cities:
- Bengaluru – 97
- Mangaluru – 87
- Mysuru – 100
- Belagavi – 130
- Kalaburagi – 88
- Shivamogga – 94
- Ballari – 91
- Hubballi – 112
- Udupi – 85
- Vijayapura – 86
Understanding AQI Levels:
- Good: 0–50
- Moderate: 50–100
- Poor: 100–150
- Unhealthy: 150–200
- Severe: 200–300
- Hazardous: 300–500+
Even as the marginal improvement has brought some respite, experts stress that sustained and long-term measures are essential to bring pollution levels within safe limits and safeguard public health.