Ahmedabad: Severe pollution and dust hit Ahmedabad’s industrial zones. Currently, pollution levels have crossed the dangerous mark. The eastern industrial corridor of the city has turned out to be Gujarat’s most polluted area, recording PM10 levels of 136.66 µg/m³—more than double the safe limit of 60 µg/m³, according to the Gujarat Pollution Control Board (GPCB).
Several other regions, such as Bhavnagar, have recorded 119 µg/m³, followed by Morbi (102.5), Kutch (97), and Vadodara (96.8). Bharuch is badly hit by high levels of pollution. The high PM10 levels—caused by industrial emissions, vehicle pollution, and construction activities—have created several health issues. Experts warned that respiratory diseases, lung infections, and heart problems may take place due to prolonged exposure.
“There has been a significant rise in respiratory illnesses in the city due to increasing PM10 and PM2.5 levels,” said Dr. Tushar Patel, a pulmonologist. He added that people working in industries or exposed to vehicle fumes are at a higher risk of developing chronic lung diseases. “During winter, pollution-related illnesses increase. Those with pre-existing conditions should wear masks if the air quality is poor,” he advised.
Environmentalists said that unchecked construction work, no proper dust control measures, and a dearth of green belts in the industrial areas have further deteriorated the pollution conditions. “Constant digging for gas lines, optical fiber networks, and other projects is adding to the dust problem. The lack of trees means these fine dust particles stay in the air, making pollution worse,” explained Mahesh Pandya, an environmental engineer.
Industries are not following the environmental rules set by experts that lead to the rise of pollution in the city. Therefore, many factories are emitting pollution amid weak enforcement of the pollution laws. “Authorities must take strict action by promoting cleaner technologies, enforcing emission limits, and improving waste management,” Pandya warned.
