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Ghaziabad Study: Loni Drives Alarming Pollution Levels
29 Aug
Summary
- Loni shows 33% higher PM2.5 than Ghaziabad's average.
- PM10 levels in Loni are 18% higher than city average.
- Illegal e-waste operations suspected as major polluters.
A recent study commissioned by the Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation (GMC) highlights Loni as a major contributor to the city's overall air pollution. The analysis, covering stations monitored by the GMC, found Loni recorded substantially higher levels of PM2.5 and PM10 particulate matter. These inhalable particles, originating from sources like vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions, can have severe health impacts.
The report indicated that Loni's PM2.5 concentrations were 33% greater than the average recorded at GMC's monitoring stations. Similarly, PM10 levels were found to be 18% higher. For instance, Loni's average PM10 concentration in 2025 reached 213.63 micrograms per cubic metre, compared to 181.21 across Ghaziabad's other three stations.
Environmentalists suggest that illegal operations, particularly the extraction of metals from e-waste, are significant factors. It's alleged that tonnes of e-waste are transported to Loni from Delhi, with toxic fumes released during nighttime metal extraction processes. Open garbage burning is also cited as a contributing factor to the high particulate matter levels.
The study recommended that Loni Nagar Palika and GMC areas be assessed separately for more accurate air quality management. Loni was previously identified by IQAir as the world's most polluted city, with PM2.5 levels far exceeding WHO safety limits.
