Air quality in Srinagar & Jammu deteriorates to dangerous levels :IQAR data

Srinagar, Nov 14: The air quality in Jammu and Kashmir has deteriorated drastically, with major cities in J & K now grappling with unhealthy pollution levels that pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable groups.
According to data from Interim Quality Assurance Report (IQAir) areas like Srinagar, Anantnag, and Jammu are experiencing hazardous air conditions, with rising concerns among health experts.
Srinagar has reported an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 183, categorized as “Unhealthy.” The primary pollutant in the city is fine particulate matter, or PM2.5, which currently stands at a dangerously high concentration of 119.7 µg/m³. This level of pollution can cause significant health issues, particularly for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. With temperatures hovering around 14°C and light winds of 4.7 km/h, residents are urged to minimize outdoor activities. The city’s humidity level is at 32%, further complicating air quality concerns.
Anantnag, located in the southern part of the valley the AQI has reached 146, indicating air quality that is “Unhealthy for sensitive groups.” The concentration of PM2.5 here is slightly lower than in Srinagar at 53.6 µg/m³, but still above the safe threshold. The city’s weather conditions include a mild 18°C temperature, wind speeds of 5.8 km/h, and low humidity at 22%.
Experts recommend that people with respiratory or heart conditions stay indoors and avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
Jammu is facing even more severe pollution, with an AQI of 185, also classified as “Unhealthy.” PM2.5 levels in the city are measured at 104.6 µg/m³, which significantly exceeds the safe limit for air quality. With temperatures currently at 26°C and wind speeds of 7.6 km/h, the region’s residents are facing an even greater threat to their health.
The worsening air quality in the Kashmir and Jammu regions highlights the growing environmental concerns and underscores the urgent need for measures to address pollution and protect public health.