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Hombegowda Nagar’s Air Quality Hits “Good” AQI of 21
Residents of Hombegowda Nagar, Bengaluru, are enjoying exceptionally clean air as the Air Quality Index (AQI) drops to 21, placing it in the “Good” category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), this makes it one of the least polluted areas in Bengaluru, a city often plagued by moderate to poor air quality.
What Does an AQI of 21 Mean?
The AQI scale (0–500) measures air pollution levels, with 0–50 classified as “Good”—posing minimal health risks. At 21, Hombegowda Nagar’s air has:
– Low PM2.5 & PM10 (fine particulate matter)
– Safe levels of NO₂, SO₂, CO, and O₃
This is a rare feat for urban India, where pollution from vehicles and industries is common.
Why Is Hombegowda Nagar’s Air So Clean?
Key factors contributing to the area’s clean air include:
1. Abundant Green Spaces – Parks and tree-lined streets filter pollutants naturally.
2. Minimal Industrial Activity – Unlike Whitefield or Peenya, it lacks heavy industries.
3. Efficient Traffic Management – Fewer traffic jams reduce vehicle emissions.
4. Active Community Efforts – Residents support tree planting and anti-pollution drives.
Hombegowda Nagar vs. Other Bengaluru Localities
- Whitefield – AQI often 100+ (Moderate) due to factories.
- CBD (Central Business District) – AQI 80–120 from heavy traffic.
- Outskirts (Hebbal, Silk Board) – AQI 101–150 due to construction dust.
Health Benefits of Good AQI (21)
- ✅ Lower risk of asthma & lung diseases
- ✅ Reduced cardiovascular strain
- ✅ Better respiratory health for children & seniors
- ✅ Fewer pollution-related headaches & allergies
Can Hombegowda Nagar Maintain Clean Air?
Potential threats:
– 🚧 New construction projects increasing dust
– 🚗 Rising vehicular traffic
– ❄️ Seasonal pollution spikes (winter smog, post-monsoon dust)
Sustaining clean air requires:
– 🌳 Expanding green cover
– 🚌 Promoting public transport
– 📜 Strict enforcement of emission norms
Lessons for Other Bengaluru Areas
- Plant more trees – Green belts improve air quality.
- Reduce traffic congestion – Smart urban planning helps.
- Encourage community participation – Public awareness drives matter.
Conclusion
Hombegowda Nagar’s AQI of 21 sets a benchmark for clean air in Bengaluru. While celebrating this achievement, long-term efforts are needed to maintain these standards.
For real-time AQI updates, follow CPCB and Karnataka Pollution Control Board reports.
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