Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a noticeable improvement in air quality following recent rain and snowfall, bringing relief after an extended dry period marked by dust, forest fires, mining activity, and heavy traffic. The change in weather helped cleanse the atmosphere by reducing suspended dust and pollutants, resulting in AQI levels across most towns improving to normal or moderate categories.
The most significant improvement was recorded in the Barotiwala–Nalagarh (BBN) industrial region, long regarded as the state’s most polluted area. AQI readings in the belt dropped to around 104, 83, and 82, all within the moderate range. This is a sharp contrast to recent conditions in Baddi, where AQI levels had consistently remained above 200 and at times surged beyond 300, posing serious health risks.
The cleanest air was reported in the state capital, where AQI fell steeply to 41 from earlier readings of about 110, placing it in the good category. Several other towns also registered improved air quality, including Parwanoo (49), Sundernagar (59), Dharamshala (57), Manali (71), Una (74), Dalhousie (60), Kalamb (89), and Poanta Sahib (132). Although Poanta Sahib remained on the higher side, its AQI still showed a clear improvement compared to previous days.
Officials from the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board said the rainfall played a key role in settling particulate matter such as PM10 and PM2.5. They also cited enforcement measures like limiting the transport of sand and construction materials in uncovered vehicles, which had been a major source of dust pollution, particularly in industrial zones.
However, authorities acknowledged that challenges persist due to unchecked traffic, industrial emissions, and mining operations. Environmental experts cautioned that while rain and snowfall offer immediate and natural relief, the benefits may be temporary. Long-term improvement will require sustained efforts, including improved road conditions, stricter regulation of mining and construction activities, and stronger monitoring of vehicular and industrial emissions, especially once dry weather returns.
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