Gurugram Residents Struggle with Hazardous Air Quality

As of November 16, 2025, the air quality in Gurugram has taken a turn for the worse, with the city waking up to a hazy morning and the air quality index (AQI) reaching a concerning level of 305, firmly in the "very poor" category.

The air monitoring station at Gwal Pahari recorded the highest pollution levels, with an AQI of 381, while other stations in the city also reported "very poor" and "poor" air quality. The PM2.5 levels, a key indicator of air pollution, were found to be alarmingly high, ranging from 291 to 342 micrograms per cubic meter.

Experts have raised the alarm, warning that the deteriorating air quality poses serious health risks for Gurugram residents. Dr. Arun Chowdary Kotaru, a senior consultant at Artemis Hospitals, explains that the fine particulate matter and toxic gases can cause inflammation and insulin resistance, increasing the risk of type-2 diabetes and heart disease over time.

Another expert, Dr. Rakesh Sharma from C Cancer Care and Research Centre, emphasizes that eight out of ten households in Gurugram are reporting air-related illnesses, with children, the elderly, and pregnant women being the most vulnerable. He stresses the importance of taking proactive measures, such as limiting outdoor activities, using air purifiers, and practicing breathing exercises to protect lung health.

The weather conditions, characterized by slow winds and dry weather, are expected to persist over the next few days, further trapping pollutants near the earth's surface. Meteorologists predict that the region will experience light to moderate fog in the mornings, with temperatures dipping in the coming days.

As Gurugram grapples with this air quality crisis, residents and authorities must work together to implement effective solutions to safeguard the health and well-being of the community.