Dehradun’s air quality has slipped back into the ‘poor’ category as PM2.5 levels rose sharply across several areas of the city. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 106, with officials identifying elevated PM2.5 concentration as the primary cause. Private monitoring websites reported even higher figures, with AQI readings touching 171, indicating significantly polluted air.
Once known for its fresh and clean environment, Dehradun is now witnessing episodes of toxic air, especially in dense and high-traffic localities such as Patel Nagar, Ghantaghar, ISBT, Haridwar Road and GMS Road. Pollution trackers show increased levels of both PM2.5 and PM10, pushing AQI values upward and exposing residents to harmful particulate matter.
Weather experts say the absence of rain, low wind movement and persistent fog are trapping pollution close to the ground. This atmospheric stability is preventing the dispersion of pollutants, causing a rise in PM2.5 levels—recorded at almost three times the safe limit in some areas.
AccuWeather reported Dehradun’s AQI at 161, categorising PM2.5 levels as “very unhealthy.” On the other hand, IQAir listed the city’s average AQI at 128, while AQI.in recorded it at 135, all placing Dehradun firmly in the ‘poor’ bracket. For reference, AQI between 0–50 is considered ‘good,’ 51–100 ‘satisfactory,’ and 101–200 ‘poor.’
