Gurugram: It was a terrible Monday for residents of Gurugram as air quality levels in the city nose-dived from the 'very poor' to severe category. Among all areas in the National Capital Region, air quality index (AQI) reading registered in Gurugram was the worst.
While PM10 levels hovered in the range of 450-500 µg/m³, the more harmful PM2.5 registered levels of 200-250 µg/m³.
The safe limits of PM2.5, as prescribed by World Health Organization, is 60.
Dust and vehicular pollution continue to be major contributors to air pollution in the city. Gurugram 'severe' air quality comes at a time when the GRAP has kicked-off in Delhi-NCR.
The Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority is trying to involve agencies such as Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB), Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) and Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority.
Some public officials, while speaking to Millennium Post, mentioned that there are plans to acts sternly against overloaded vehicles, create more parking spaces and mechanise the cleaning of roads to prevent dust pollution. In addition to these measures, there are also plans to monitor industrial units and grade them as the pollution level they cause.
Over 800 such units have been issued notices. Around 230 industrial units have been placed under the red category the highest level for those causing maximum pollution.
"Gurugram and Faridabad have borne the brunt of pollution owing to various factors. We are now trying to find a solution to the challenges and, if required, also taking action against offenders who contribute to pollution," said an official from HSPCB.