Silent Threat: Ground-Level Ozone Surges in Pune and Mumbai, CPCB Warns NGT

An invisible and insidious threat is silently escalating over the bustling metropolises of Pune and Mumbai: ground-level ozone pollution. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has issued a stark warning to the National Green Tribunal (NGT), revealing an alarming increase in ozone levels, pushing these vibrant cities closer to an environmental crisis.

Unlike the beneficial ozone layer in the stratosphere that shields us from harmful UV radiation, ground-level ozone is a toxic secondary pollutant.

It doesn't come directly from exhaust pipes but forms through a complex chemical reaction. When primary pollutants like Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), emitted from vehicles, industries, and power plants, bake under intense sunlight, they produce this dangerous gas. The result? A silent, choking cloud that poses severe risks to public health and the environment.

In Pune, the numbers paint a concerning picture.

Between January and September 2023, a staggering 10 out of 19 monitoring stations recorded ozone levels exceeding the prescribed eight-hour standard of 100 µg/m³. The Shivajinagar station topped the list with 29 days of exceedance, closely followed by Lohegaon with 20 days. This trend marks a worrying escalation from 2022, where 36 instances of ozone exceedance were reported, climbing to 44 in 2023.

This isn't just a statistical blip; it's a clear indicator of deteriorating air quality impacting the city's residents.

Mumbai, the financial capital, fares even worse. Nine out of its ten monitoring stations registered ozone levels above the safety threshold. Vile Parle recorded the highest number of exceedances at 29 days, with Bandra not far behind at 27 days.

The overall trend for Mumbai is particularly alarming: instances of ozone exceedance surged from 53 in 2022 to a daunting 85 in 2023. This makes Mumbai a frontrunner among non-attainment cities in terms of ozone pollution, with Pune following closely behind.

The health ramifications of elevated ground-level ozone are severe and widespread.

Exposure can lead to a range of respiratory problems, including asthma attacks, bronchitis, and reduced lung function. It causes irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat, and can even trigger chest pain and coughing. Vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, are particularly at risk.

Beyond human health, ozone also harms vegetation, impacting agricultural yields and ecosystem health.

The CPCB's report to the NGT underscores the urgency of this environmental challenge. It highlights the ongoing efforts under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), a long-term initiative aimed at reducing air pollution across the country.

While these programs are crucial, the rising ozone levels in Pune and Mumbai signal that more aggressive, targeted interventions are immediately needed.

As these cities continue to grow, the pressure on air quality intensifies. The surge in ground-level ozone is a stark reminder that unchecked development and inadequate pollution control measures have tangible, dangerous consequences.

It's a collective call to action for policymakers, industries, and citizens alike to prioritize sustainable practices and robust environmental safeguards, ensuring a healthier, breathable future for all.