South Mumbai sees worse air quality than Delhi amid low winds, high humidity

Mumbai's southern-most point recorded worse air quality than Delhi due to a 'lethal combination' of low wind speeds, low temperature, and high humidity alongside vehicular pollution, according to experts.

Colaba had an AQI (air quality index) of 345, while the maximum registered in Delhi on Monday was 331, as per SAFAR -- a system of air quality and weather forecasting and research developed by Pune-based Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology.

Usually, the strong wind blowing in from the sea over peninsular Mumbai saves it from the severe effects of air pollution. However, air quality in Mazgaon, BKC, and Malad was also ‘very poor’ on Monday.


Experts claim this happens in Colaba often and is a feature observed there throughout winter, adding that had Mumbai not been abutting the coast, AQIs could have been worse than in Delhi.

Delhi set a record for pollution a few days ago with AQI dipping to 471 -- a 'severe' level that affects even healthy people and seriously impacts those with existing diseases.

A moderate AQI (101-200) can cause breathing discomfort to most people on prolonged exposure.

Smoke from vehicles, garbage-burning and industries and construction dust are also factors which cause deterioration in air quality.