Home / Environment / Haryana Cities Choke on PM10 for 7 Years
Haryana Cities Choke on PM10 for 7 Years
25 Oct
Summary
- Gurugram and other Haryana cities have exceeded PM10 limits for seven consecutive years.
- PM10 particles, from dust and emissions, aggravate respiratory illnesses.
- Experts cite inconsistent mitigation and poor enforcement for persistent pollution.
Southern Haryana cities, including Gurugram, have failed to meet air quality standards for seven consecutive years, with annual PM10 levels significantly exceeding the national limit. Gurugram recorded 164.9 µg/m³ in 2026, far above the 60 µg/m³ annual standard, and similar issues persist in Ballabhgarh, Faridabad, Dharuhera, and Manesar.
These fine PM10 particles, originating from sources like construction and vehicle emissions, are known to worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma and reduce lung function. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to these health impacts.
Experts attribute the persistent pollution to inconsistent implementation of local mitigation measures and weak enforcement of regulations. Despite GRAP Stage I being invoked, which mandates stricter dust control and emission checks, underlying issues like poor road conditions and construction dust remain unaddressed.
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage I was activated across the National Capital Region (NCR) after Delhi reported its first 'poor' air quality day. This triggers intensified dust control, checks on vehicles, and restrictions on inter-city bus services unless they meet newer emission standards.
