Alarm bells have started ringing over the increasing levels of air pollution in Mysuru, which was considered one of the least polluted cities a few years ago.
The particulate matter (PM) pollution has neared alarming proportions here following increase in its levels over the last five years. One of the prime reasons for this is unrestrained emission from vehicles.
The particulate matter pollution had once crossed the permissible limits (60 micrograms per meter cube of air) in the semi-industrial locality in 2013-14. And, the levels have been climbing in residential/commercial areas of the city.
Particulate matter (consists of airborne particles in solid and liquid forms) poses a serious health hazard and triggers respiratory diseases.
Also, sulphur dioxide (SO2) and Oxides of Nitrogen (Nox) pollution have been getting higher in last five years here, but not to such disquieting levels. The air quality is being monitored at two stations — at the KSPCB office in Hebbal (industrial) and another near the KSRTC city bus-stand at K.R. Circle (commercial/ residential).
