Srinagar, Dec 8: For nearly two weeks, Kashmir’s air quality has been consistently “unhealthy” for a major part of the day every day.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) of various monitoring locations has crossed 150 across the week.

Once known for the pristine air, Kashmir now has a hazardous brew to breathe, the gaseous cocktail silently claiming lives.

Microscopic particulate matter (PM2.5) levels have been around 150 micrograms per cubic meter.

This level is well beyond the World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines of healthy air.

Moreover, PM10 readings over 200 μg/m³ have been recorded by air quality monitoring labs through satellite imaging as well as on ground pollution monitoring stations.

The smog that covers Kashmir is not just a visibility concern but a major reason for a surge

See Full Page