Mumbai's Bandra area experienced a noticeable decline in air quality. On December 28, 2025, a thin layer of smog was observed in areas such as Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), as the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 123.
Air Quality Index (AQI) Breakdown
As of today, December 28, 2025, Mumbai's AQI reflects an "unhealthy" level of air pollution. Different sources report slightly varying AQI values for Mumbai and its specific locations. For instance, one source indicates a general AQI of 183 for Mumbai, while another places it higher at 244. In Bandra, the AQI is reported to be 200. BKC is experiencing an AQI of 184.
It's important to understand what these numbers mean. An AQI between 101 and 200 is considered "unhealthy," posing a risk to sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory problems. When the AQI goes above 150, health effects can be immediately felt by sensitive groups. Healthy individuals may experience difficulty breathing and throat irritation with prolonged exposure.
Major Pollutants
The primary pollutants contributing to the poor air quality in Bandra are particulate matter, specifically PM2.5 and PM10. PM2.5 refers to fine inhalable particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, while PM10 includes particles with a diameter of 10 micrometers or less. These pollutants can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
In Bandra, PM2.5 levels are at 125 µg/m³, and PM10 levels are at 162 µg/m³. For Bandra Kurla Complex, PM2.5 measures 103µg/m³ and PM10 measures 131µg/m³. To provide context, the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines recommend that annual average PM2.5 concentrations should not exceed 5 µg/m³ and PM10 concentrations should not exceed 15 µg/m³.
Other pollutants contributing to Mumbai's AQI include carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2).
Health Recommendations
Given the current air quality, residents, especially those sensitive to air pollution, should take precautions to minimize their exposure. Recommendations include:
- Limiting outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution hours.
- Wearing masks, particularly N95 or equivalent, when outdoors.
- Keeping windows and doors closed to prevent pollutants from entering homes.
- Using air purifiers indoors to filter out particulate matter.
- Consulting a healthcare professional if experiencing respiratory symptoms.
Contributing Factors
While specific causes for the sudden increase in pollution in Bandra were not detailed, factors typically contributing to Mumbai's air pollution include vehicular emissions, industrial activities, construction, and weather conditions. The combination of these factors can lead to the accumulation of pollutants and the formation of smog, especially during the winter months when cooler temperatures and stagnant air trap pollutants near the ground.
Wider Context
Mumbai is currently ranked among the most polluted cities globally. Other major Indian cities, such as Delhi, Kolkata, and Hyderabad, are also experiencing high levels of air pollution. This highlights the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address air pollution across India, including stricter emission standards, investments in public transportation, and promotion of cleaner energy sources.
