GuruIntroduction
Air pollution has become one of the biggest environmental and health challenges of our time. To help people understand how clean or polluted the air is, experts use a standard measurement called the Air Quality Index (AQI). AQI simplifies complex air pollution data into an easy-to-understand number, helping individuals make informed decisions about their daily activities.
What Is AQI (Air Quality Index)?
AQI (Air Quality Index) is a numerical scale used to communicate how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is expected to become. It focuses on the health effects people may experience after breathing polluted air for a short period (a few hours or days).
The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the higher the health risk.
Pollutants Measured in AQI (Air Quality Index)
AQI (Air Quality Index) is calculated based on the concentration of major air pollutants, including:
- PM2.5 – Fine particulate matter (very harmful)
- PM10 – Coarse particulate matter
- NO₂ (Nitrogen Dioxide) – From vehicles and power plants
- SO₂ (Sulfur Dioxide) – From industrial emissions
- CO (Carbon Monoxide) – From incomplete fuel combustion
- O₃ (Ozone) – Ground-level ozone formed by sunlight and pollutants
Among these, PM2.5 is considered the most dangerous because it can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream.
AQI Categories and Their Meaning
| AQI Range | Air Quality | Health impact |
|---|---|---|
| 0–50 | Good | Air is clean, minimal impact |
| 51–100 | Satisfactory | Minor discomfort to sensitive people |
| 101–200 | Moderate | Breathing discomfort for sensitive groups |
| 201–300 | Poor | Breathing discomfort for most people |
| 301–400 | Very Poor | Respiratory illness likely |
| 401–500 | Severe | Serious health effects, even for healthy people |
Why AQI Is Important
- Helps people plan outdoor activities
- Protects children, older adults, and asthma patients
- Guides government pollution-control policies
- Raises public awareness about environmental health
Monitoring AQI regularly can significantly reduce health risks caused by air pollution.
Health Effects of High AQI
When AQI levels are high, people may experience:
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Shortness of breath
- Worsening of asthma and bronchitis
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Reduced lung function
Long-term exposure to polluted air can lead to serious chronic diseases.
How to Protect Yourself When AQI Is High
- Avoid outdoor exercise during peak pollution hours
- Use N95 or N99 masks
- Keep windows closed; use air purifiers indoors
- Drink plenty of water
- Check AQI daily using trusted apps or websites
- Encourage public transport and carpooling
AQI (Air Quality Index) in India
Many Indian cities frequently experience Poor to Severe AQI levels, especially during winter due to vehicle emissions, crop burning, construction dust, and weather conditions. Cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata often report high AQI, making awareness and preventive action essential.
How to Check AQI (Air Quality Index)
You can check AQI using:
- Government portals (CPCB, SAFAR)
- Mobile apps (AQI India, AirVisual)
- Weather apps and Google Search
Conclusion
AQI is more than just a number—it is a vital indicator of the air we breathe and its impact on our health. By understanding AQI and taking simple precautions, we can protect ourselves and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment.