What is the Air Quality Index (AQI)?
The AQI is a tool used to communicate how polluted the air currently is or how polluted it is forecast to become. Public health risks increase as the AQI rises.
How has AQI become important in India?
With the rise in air pollution levels, especially during events like Diwali and the stubble burning season, AQI has become crucial for Indians to check the level of air pollution in their neighborhoods.
What are the sources for AQI information in India?
Platforms such as AQI.in are popular sources for real-time air quality data, alongside weather widgets on phones and other online tools.
Who is Rohit Bansal and what is his significance with AQI?
Rohit Bansal is an environmental entrepreneur and founder of AQI.in. He has experienced the effects of poor air quality personally and started the platform to help others understand and manage their exposure to air pollution.
What are the trends in AQI tracking websites' traffic?
Websites like AQI.in have seen a significant rise in traffic, particularly around times of high pollution. AQI.in claims to have received 1.1 million visits in the first two weeks of November 2022.
Why is mobile traffic significant for AQI websites?
Most of the AQI tracking websites, including AQI.in, receive over 90% of their traffic via mobile phones, underscoring the importance of mobile accessibility for users seeking air quality information.
What are the AQI categories and what do they mean?
Good (0-50): Air quality is considered satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
Moderate (51-100): Air quality is acceptable; however, for some pollutants, there may be a moderate health concern for a very small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (101-200): Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. The general public is not likely to be affected.
Unhealthy (201-300): Everyone may begin to experience health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects.
Very Unhealthy (301-400): Health alert: everyone may experience more serious health effects.
Hazardous (401-500): Health warnings of emergency conditions. The entire population is more likely to be affected.
How can individuals reduce their exposure to air pollution?
Individuals can reduce exposure by tracking AQI levels and minimizing outdoor activities when the air quality is poor. Additionally, using air purifiers and wearing masks can help reduce inhalation of pollutants.
What is the cost range for air quality products?
Air quality products such as Prana Air's solutions can range from Rs.3,000 to Rs.50,000, catering to a variety of needs and budgets.
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