Despite witnessing a major infrastructure and construction boom, Nagpur has performed comparatively better than Mumbai and Pune on the air quality front over the past one month, with PM10 levels remaining lower than those recorded in the two metropolitan cities. As per the data available on the website of Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Mumbai recorded the highest PM10 level among the three at 95.27 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³), placing it close to the upper end of the moderate range. The comparison assumes significance for Nagpur, where several road, flyover, metro, drainage and other infrastructure projects are underway. Construction activity and vehicular movement are generally associated with increased dust and particulate emissions. Yet, the city’s air quality performance over the past month has remained relatively better than that of Mumbai and Pune. Under the Air Quality Index (AQI) classification, air quality is Under the Air Quality Index (AQI) classification, air quality is considered ‘Good’ when the index is between 0 and 50 µg/m³, indicating minimal health risk.

 

The 51-100 µg/m³ range is classified as ‘Satisfactory’, where sensitive people may experience minor discomfort. AQI from 101 to 200 µg/m³ is considered ‘Moderate’, when prolonged exposure can begin affecting vulnerable groups. Levels between 201 and 300 µg/m³ are ‘Poor’, while 301-400 µg/m³ is ‘Very Poor’ and 401-500 µg/m³ falls under the ‘Severe’ category, posing a greater health risk. PM10 is one of the key pollutants considered while determining air quality. Mumbai’s recorded 95.27 µg/m³. PM10 level indicates that particulate pollution remains a concern even though it is below the national daily permissible limit of 100 µg/m³. Nagpur’s lower PM10 level during the period offers some relief, particularly given the scale of ongoing construction.

 

However, the relatively better performance should not lead to complacency. Nagpur has witnessed episodes of elevated particulate pollution in the past, particularly during periods of dry weather and increased dust. With several infrastructure projects continuing across the city, effective dust suppression, covering of construction material, regular road sweeping and better traffic management remain essential. For now, the one-month comparison presents a positive picture for Nagpur: The city has managed to maintain comparatively better air quality than Mumbai and Pune despite being in the midst of extensive infrastructure development.