Himachal Pradesh capital Shimla, once celebrated as the ‘hill healer’ for its pristine air, is facing a worrying decline in air quality, raising concerns among environmentalists and health experts alike.
According to reports from the Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board (HPPCB) and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air quality index (AQI) in Shimla has steadily increased over the past decade.
The average AQI, which was 35 in 2011-2012, has now surged to 52 in 2024, indicating a gradual deterioration in air quality.
Urbanisation, vehicles, forest fires to blame
Experts attribute the rising pollution levels to increasing urbanisation, the ever-growing number of vehicles and frequent forest fires in the surrounding areas.
Data from 2011-12 reveals that sulfur dioxide (SO2) levels were at 2 micrograms per cubic meter, while nitrogen dioxide (NO2) stood at 8.1 micrograms per cubic meter. Additionally, respirable suspended particulate matter (RSPM) was measured at 40 micrograms per cubic meter.
Fast forward to 2024, and the figures paint a concerning picture. The annual average AQI has reached 52, with SO2 levels rising to 2.1 micrograms per cubic meter and NO2 climbing to 10.4 micrograms per cubic meter.
Moreover, PM10 and PM2.5 levels have shown a significant increase, with PM10 recorded at 51 micrograms per cubic meter and PM2.5 at 18 micrograms per cubic meter, signalling growing health risks for residents.
273 days of air quality monitoring in 2024
While the HPPCB has yet to release the annual report for 2023-24, data from 273 days of air quality monitoring in 2024 reveals persistent concerns.
The consistent rise in pollutant levels, though still within the ‘good’ category, is alarming. Experts warn that unchecked pollution could lead to respiratory diseases such as asthma and bronchitis, particularly affecting vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.
Fluctuating trends and data discrepancies
Interestingly, air quality showed a temporary improvement in 2022-2023, with the average AQI dropping to 47 from 53 in previous years. However, inconsistencies between data from government sources and private monitoring agencies have raised questions about the accuracy of reporting.
For instance, on January 15, 2024, the HPPCB recorded an AQI of 77, whereas a private agency reported a much higher reading of 155, highlighting the need for standardised monitoring.
Despite still being categorised in the ‘good’ air quality range, the downward trend is a call for action. Environmentalists stress the urgent need for stricter pollution controls, sustainable urban planning, and better monitoring mechanisms to ensure Shimla retains its reputation as a healthy hill station.