BENGALURU: During the early winter season, Karnataka cities are faring better than many other Indian cities in terms of air quality. Raichur has emerged as the cleanest city in the state, closely followed by Madikeri.
This insight comes from a report by AtlasAQ, an initiative by Respirer Living Sciences, a climate-tech startup based in Maharashtra. The team analyzed air pollution levels across 281 cities from November 3 to 16, 2024, specifically focusing on PM2.5 levels post-Diwali.
Raichur recorded an impressive average PM2.5 level of 17.9 μg/m3, while Madikeri followed with 18.4 μg/m3. Both cities fall under the “good” air quality category, reflecting successful local governance, low industrial activity, and favorable geography. They stand out among Indian cities, ranking alongside the cleanest cities in the northeast like Imphal (14.2 μg/m3) and Nagaon (16.9 μg/m3), and Ariyalur in Tamil Nadu (15.0 μg/m3).
Karnataka overall performed well, with cities like Udupi (21.2 μg/m3), Mysuru (25.7 μg/m3), and Shivamogga (27.4 μg/m3) also falling in the good air quality bracket. Bengaluru maintained a moderate air quality with a PM2.5 level of 40.8 μg/m3, outperforming metros like Mumbai and Chennai.
Ronak Sutaria, CEO of Respirer Living Sciences, praised Karnataka’s proactive policies and sustainable planning, which contribute to the state’s clean air success. Raichur and Madikeri’s rankings highlight the significance of balancing urban and industrial growth with environmental health.
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