MP’s air quality dips to dangerous levels:AQI crosses 300 in many cities; Bhopal now second most polluted after Singrauli

Air quality across Madhya Pradesh is steadily deteriorating. According to the latest data from the live monitoring system on the State Pollution Control Board’s website, the level of PM 2.5 — fine dust particles — has risen in 98% of the cities in the state. Similar to Delhi, several cities in Madhya Pradesh are now engulfed in severe pollution. Singrauli has reported the worst air quality in the state. The AQI at the Trauma Centre reached 356, the highest recorded in Madhya Pradesh. Bhopal has become the second most polluted city in the state, with alarming AQI levels across three key locations: All three areas fall under the “Very Poor” category, with TT Nagar showing the most severe pollution levels among them. Gwalior also reports alarming AQI The situation in Gwalior is similarly concerning: Maharaj Bada and DD Nagar fall into the ‘very poor’ category, while City Centre remains in the ‘poor’ category despite being comparatively less polluted. In Indore, air quality varied significantly across different areas: 5 most polluted cities in the state Why does pollution rise in fog and winter ? Environmental experts explain that AQI typically rises during winter. During this season, harmful gases emitted from vehicles do not expand and instead remain suspended in the atmosphere. As the cold intensifies, both gases and dust particles stay in the air for longer periods, increasing pollution levels. Heavy fog further prevents harmful gases from dispersing. Expert insights on pollutant behaviour According to environmental expert Subhash C. Pandey- He recommends that morning walks should be taken only after sunlight increases, as pollutants begin to rise from ground level at that time. Why do some areas show better air quality ? Experts note that areas such as Damoh, Khargone, and Regional Park recorded Good or Satisfactory AQI because they have fewer industries and lower traffic density. Pollutants disperse more quickly when wind speeds are higher. Strong winds lift pollutants away from the ground, helping the air clear more rapidly in such locations.