As winter sets in, air pollution levels across Gujarat have surged, pushing the state’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) to 193 — a range considered harmful to public health. Ahmedabad is close to touching 200, signalling increasingly toxic air.
AQI above 150 is classified as dangerous, particularly in industrial regions where vehicle emissions and factory output drive pollution. Eight major cities are now nearing ‘red alert’ conditions.
City-wise AQI
- Chikhli: 246 (worst)
- Daman: 224
- Rajkot: 217
- Ahmedabad: 196
- Ankleshwar: 164
- Bhavnagar: 156
Health impact
Doctors report rising cases of breathing problems, eye irritation and discomfort among children, the elderly and asthma patients. Smog-like conditions have also affected morning walkers and commuters.
Precautions
- Avoid high-pollution areas; wear a mask when needed
- Asthma patients should keep inhalers and medicines handy