Nainital: Nainital of Uttarakhand, once famous for clean and cool air, is now facing the brunt of air pollution. The effect of increasing air pollution across the country has now reached the heights of the mountains. In recent times, the increasing level of PM 2.5 in the air of Nainital has raised concerns. The effect of light haze and smoke is clearly visible in the morning and evening in the city, which is a big warning sign for the hilly region.
According to the recent report of Nainital-based ARIES, the average level of PM 2.5 in the city has been recorded at 50-60 micrograms per cubic meter. This level reaches 250–300 micrograms during severe thunderstorms or forest fires in summer. This figure is several times higher than the WHO’s safe limit of 15 micrograms per cubic meter. Meteorologist Ramesh Chandra says that now not only local pollution, but also the smoke transported from the plains is continuously polluting the air of the mountains. The main reasons for increasing pollution in Nainital are the increasing number of tourists and vehicular pressure, rampant increase in diesel-petrol vehicles, uncontrolled construction on the hills, forest fires and lack of waste management in the city.
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What will be the effect?
Experts say that if concrete steps are not taken in time, Nainital’s clean air identity will be in serious danger. This will have a direct impact on the tourism industry, which is the main basis of livelihood of the people here. Increasing pollution can pose serious health risks to children, the elderly, pregnant women and heart-lung patients.
What is the solution?
To solve this problem, scientists have said that there is a need to promote eco-friendly transport in the city, control the number of vehicles in the city, have a strong fire prevention system, improve waste management and strictly implement environmental protection policies. Also, an appeal has been made to the tourists and local people to cooperate in saving the natural beauty and clean climate of Nainital, so that the coming generations can also enjoy the clean air of this city.
