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Andhra Pradesh Air Quality Plummets: Vizag Polluted
31 May
Summary
- Particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide levels have significantly worsened over three years.
- Visakhapatnam identified as a major pollution hotspot due to multiple factors.
- Winter months experience the peak of PM2.5, PM10, and nitrogen dioxide pollution.
An analysis spanning three years, from January 2024 to April 2026, reveals a concerning decline in Andhra Pradesh's air quality. Particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide pollution have escalated significantly during this period. PM2.5 levels have risen by 33%, exceeding national limits, while nitrogen dioxide has seen a 44% increase, primarily affecting airways.
Winter months, specifically November, December, and January, are identified as the peak pollution period for PM2.5, PM10, and nitrogen dioxide. This surge is attributed to reduced wind speeds and temperature inversions trapping pollutants near the ground. Ammonia levels, however, remain elevated throughout the year, peaking in early 2026.
Visakhapatnam has been identified as a primary pollution hotspot. Contributing factors include intensive port activities, heavy industrial presence, and escalating urban traffic. Other significant hotspots for PM2.5 and PM10 pollution were observed in cities like Tirupati, Chittoor, Kadapa, Anantapur, Rajamahendravaram, and Amaravati.
