Air quality in some major cities in Karnataka is in the good to moderate range, according to the air quality report that was published last month. Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, Hubballi-Dharwad and Belagavi are all listed as having different air quality index (AQI) levels, and coastal Mangaluru has the lowest.
The figures indicate relatively good air quality in many parts of the state. Pollution can be uneven by neighbourhood, traffic density, weather conditions, and time of day. Residents should monitor the current monitoring station readings in their area before making outdoor decisions.
Bengaluru AQI Today: Air Quality Reportedly Between 39 and 55
Bengaluru's average AQI is between 39 and 55. This level of air quality is generally good on the lower end, and readings around 55 are considered moderate under India's National AQI classification.
According to the report, MG Road and Jayanagar showed AQI levels of 40 to 50. Peenya, industrial areas, and the Silk Board region had higher readings of around 65 to 75, which could be related to traffic and local emissions.
These figures suggest that air quality can vary considerably in Bengaluru. Places where heavy vehicle movement, construction or industrial activity take place can generate higher pollution than less-busy areas.
Fine particulate matter, such as PM2.5 and larger particles known as PM10, are significant pollutants to monitor. Exposure to high concentrations hurts respiratory health, particularly for children, older people, and those with asthma or other lung or heart diseases.
Residents can reduce exposure by avoiding unnecessary time near congested roads and checking local air quality readings before exercising outdoors.
Karnataka City-Wise AQI Report
The following table summarizes the reported AQI ranges provided for five major Karnataka cities.
| City | Reported AQI Range | General Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Mangaluru | 32–42 | Good |
| Bengaluru | 39–55 | Good to Moderate |
| Mysuru | 45–55 | Good to Moderate |
| Hubballi-Dharwad | 50–62 | Good to Moderate |
| Belagavi | 42–50 | Good |
Mangaluru Reports the Lowest AQI Range
Mangaluru recorded the lowest reported AQI range among the cities listed, at about 32 to 42. The figures reflect good air quality under India’s AQI classification.
Coastal weather conditions can affect the movement and dispersion of pollutants. But air quality is also contingent on traffic, industrial activity, weather and other sources of pollution. The lowest reading does not necessarily mean that all parts of the city have the same air quality.
Residents should also refer to monitoring data of their neighbourhood's monitoring data in the future and keep reference to this information if they are concerned about air pollution.
Mysuru and Belagavi Report Good Air Quality
Mysuru's AQI was 45 to 55, while Belagavi had around 42 to 50. These numbers are in the good category at the lower end and can be found in the moderate range, where values are above 50.
The reported conditions seem to be fairly favourable, but daily variations may occur. Traffic and local emissions, wind speed, and rainfall can affect pollution.
People who are planning outdoor exercise or other activities should take into account the latest local readings as opposed to just citywide averages.
Hubballi-Dharwad AQI: Readings Reach 62
Hubballi-Dharwad recorded AQI values between 50 and 62. On India’s National AQI scale, 51 to 100 are in the satisfactory category while 0 to 50 are good.
The range therefore shows that some readings are satisfactory, but not all air quality is good. While these are generally less problematic than higher pollution categories in general, an exceptionally sensitive person might still have discomfort depending on the pollution and their health.
Local conditions can inform residents in their outdoor activities.
What are AQI numbers?
In India, National Air Quality Index classifies air quality into six categories:
- Good (0-50): Minimal impact expected on health.
- Satisfactory (51–100): Minor breathing discomfort may occur in sensitive people.
- Moderately polluted (101–200): Breathing discomfort may affect people with lung or heart conditions, children, and older adults.
- Poor (201–300): Breathing discomfort may affect many people after prolonged exposure.
- Very poor (301–400): Increased risk of respiratory effects from prolonged exposure.
- Severe (401–500): Health effects can occur even among healthy people, with more serious impacts on vulnerable groups.
AQI is a collective assessment of air pollution, and it should be considered alongside information about each of the pollutants and local conditions.
How do Residents protect themselves?
Even in a city where the readings are relatively low, residents can take simple precautions to reduce exposure to pollution. The avoidance of long-term exercise near busy roads, reducing exposure during peaks in AQI and taking official health advisories can help.
People with asthma or other respiratory conditions need to follow their healthcare professional’s advice and monitor symptoms. If air quality deteriorates, they may have to stop strenuous outdoor activity.
Residents can also help curb pollution by using public transport when feasible, maintaining vehicles properly, and avoiding the burning of waste.
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