A recent study reveals that even residents living on the 26th floor of high-rise buildings in Mumbai's Wadala area are exposed to hazardous air quality, similar to those living nearer to the ground.
A study conducted by the Mumbai Ecological Research and Analysis Group (MERAG) highlights alarming findings regarding air quality in high-rise buildings in Mumbai's Wadala area. Contrary to the common belief that living at greater heights provides cleaner air, the study demonstrates that air pollutants, including PM2.5 and other harmful particles, are present at dangerous levels even at the 26th floor. This poses a significant health risk to residents who assumed they were protected from urban pollution.
The study involved an extensive eight-day investigation of air quality around high-rise towers in Wadala, Bhakti Park, and New Kaf Paradise. The results revealed that the air quality deteriorates progressively, and those residing in these taller buildings are not spared from the perils of polluted air. This finding calls into question the desirability of living in high-rise accommodations, especially for the numerous families who have chosen such housing under the assumption of healthier living conditions.
The implications of the study extend beyond individual health concerns, as the results indicate a need for urgent action to address air pollution in urban settings like Mumbai. Stakeholders, including local authorities and building developers, must reconsider urban planning and pollution mitigation strategies to safeguard public health. The research serves as a wake-up call for urban residents, urging them to be aware of their environmental health risks, regardless of their altitude.
