Bhopal’s AQI remained in moderate category for 10 out of last 14 days
May 13, 2026, 23:49 (IST)
Times News Network Bhopal: Air pollution in Bhopal has gone up in the past two weeks. The figures suggest the city’s AQI has increased from satisfactory to moderate category. It means that the AQI, which was earlier between 51 to 100, jumped to the range of 101 to 200. In the past two weeks, the AQI of Bhopal has been satisfactory only on four days, while during majority of the days it remained in the moderate category, as per the pollution control board. Possible health impact in AQI at satisfactory level was minor breathing discomfort to sensitive people, while AQI in moderate category may lead to breathing discomfort to people with lungs, asthma and heart diseases, as per the pollution control board. Strong dry winds leading to flying of suspended dust particles in lower level of atmosphere, remains of stubble burning in atmosphere and loose soil particulates in absence of moisture content due to heat were underlined as probable reasons by the meteorological dept, Bhopal circle for increased air quality index in peak summers. Air quality is measured taking into account the levels of sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxide (Nox), RSPM10 and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air. Of the four, officials said, PM2.5 is the most harmful to health since it causes severe lung diseases. PM 10 is due to dust, construction, including building of roads while PM2.5 is due to dust, human activity and climatic conditions.