Air quality in Chennai dips during Bhogi

TNPCB reports slight air pollution increase during Bhogi festival in Chennai, with overall AQI ranging from 92 to 177.

The Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB) reported a slight increase in air pollution during the Bhogi festival on January 13.

The TNPCB conducted 24-hour air quality surveys across all 15 zones of Greater Chennai. During the Bhogi day, from 8 a.m. on January 12 to 8. a.m. on January 13, the Air Quality Index (AQI) ranged between 92 and 177 across Chennai, with an overall AQI classification of “satisfactory to moderate”. This was higher than the AQI on January 9-10, when it ranged from 45 to 74, which was considered “good to satisfactory.”

Favorable weather conditions helped clear the smog by midday. However, by 5.30 p.m. on January 12, pollution levels were still higher in areas like Kodungaiyur, Manali, and Perungudi, according to the Sameer air quality monitoring app by the Central Pollution Control Board.

In comparison, during the Bhogi celebrations in 2024, air quality levels dipped to “poor” levels. The AQI reached a minimum of 131 (moderate) at Anna Nagar and a maximum of 270 (poor) at Valasaravakkam. This led to flight disruptions at Chennai Airport due to low visibility. The poor air quality and smog were believed to be caused by high humidity and low wind speeds.