Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru (MS)

Bengaluru, Dec 9: The Air Quality Index (AQI) of cities in Karnataka is better than that of many other Indian cities this winter, according to a report by Maharashtra-based startup Respire Living Sciences via its Atlasache platform. Raichur was named the cleanest city in Karnataka, followed by Madikeri.

The study, conducted between November 3 and 16, analyzed air quality in 281 Indian cities. Raichur recorded an average PM 2.5 level of 17.9 μg/m³, while Madikeri registered 18.4 μg/m³, both indicating high air quality standards. Favourable geographical conditions and minimal industrial density were cited as key factors contributing to their clean air. These cities were ranked alongside North Eastern cities such as Imphal in Manipur (14.2 μg/m³) and Nagaon in Assam (16.9 μg/m³), as well as Ariyalur in Tamil Nadu (15.0 μg/m³).

Ronak Sutaria, Founder and CEO of Respire Living Sciences, stated, “Most cities in Karnataka, including Mysuru (25.7 μg/m³) and Shivamogga (27.4 μg/m³), have shown good air quality. Bengaluru, with a PM 2.5 level of 40.8 μg/m³, has also managed its air quality effectively, outperforming cities like Chennai and Mumbai.”

The report highlights that clear air quality can be achieved through well-defined policies, regional cooperation, and robust urban planning. The success of Raichur and Madikeri underscores the possibility of maintaining good air quality by prioritizing a healthy environment while managing urban and industrial development.