City struggles to catch its breath

Worsening air quality leads to rise in pneumonia, asthma and winter ailments among Amdavadis

- Ankit Pandey

Ahmedabad is witnessing a rise in cases of pneumonia, influenza and respiratory disorders as the city faces worsening air quality. According to pulmonologists, bacterial infections often increase in October and November, especially with the high air pollution levels and the onset of winter.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Ahmedabad has been consistently high in recent weeks, especially with Diwali celebrations increasing air pollution from firecrackers. On October 25, it reached 178, followed by 220 on October 26. The numbers continued to stay high, with AQI of 188 on November 1, 209 on November 2 and 195 on November 16. These levels are not considered safe for public health.