Bengaluru Air Quality Worsens: City Plans Air Purifiers at Major Junctions to Tackle Rising Pollution

Bengaluru’s declining air quality has raised serious concern among residents and authorities, with several parts of the city slipping into “moderate” and even “poor” AQI categories. In response, the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) is planning to install air purifiers at some of the busiest traffic junctions to help reduce dust and particulate matter.

KSPCB chairman PM Narendraswamy told TOI that the board is exploring large-scale deployment of air purifiers to curb rising PM2.5 levels — particles known to trigger respiratory issues and long-term health risks. Earlier trials of such systems reportedly showed positive results, encouraging officials to seek approval from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for wider implementation.

Narendraswamy also noted that Bengaluru, once known for its clean and pleasant air, has seen a shift over the years. Many natural dust diffusers like water fountains at major junctions have disappeared, leaving the city more vulnerable to airborne pollution.

Bengaluru AQI on November 17

The city recorded an overall AQI of 112 (moderate), with one monitoring station slipping into the “poor” category.

Area-wise AQI readings:

• BWSSB Kadabesanahalli: 215 (Poor)
• Silk Board: 138
• Jigani: 135
• Jayanagar: 121
• Hebbal: 116
• City Railway Station: 106

According to the Sameer app, out of 12 stations tracked:

• 4 reported “satisfactory” air
• 7 reported “moderate”
• 1 recorded “poor” air

Public Concern Growing

Residents have increasingly compared Bengaluru’s rising pollution levels to Delhi’s well-known air crisis. Many believe that illegal garbage burning and dust from unregulated construction are significantly contributing to the deteriorating air quality.

As pollution spikes and winter approaches, the city awaits regulatory approval for the proposed air purifiers — a move authorities hope will offer some relief at the city’s most polluted junctions.