Summer begins on cooler note in UT this year, courtesy cleaner air

CHANDIGARH: Even as peak summer season is round the corner, the temperature in the city is still on the lower side as compared to previous years, according to the officials of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), who attribute the trend to higher than average rainfall and improved air quality due to restricted vehicular movement and industrial activity amid the lockdown.

As per Chandigarh Pollution Control Committee (CPCC) report on air pollution in city, vehicular emissions are the leading cause of pollutants entering the air. Ever since the lockdown began from March 24, the air quality has remained in the good bracket (0-50) while in previous years, it would stay in the moderate bracket (100-200). Due to this, averages of both maximum and minimum temperatures in April this year remained lower than previous (see graphic). This far in May as well, the figures continue to be lower than previous years.

IMD regional director Surender Paul said, “Pollutants in the air absorb heat causing temperatures to go up. Even if pollution

levels start to rise as and when the lockdown is opened, some gradual rise in temperature can be expected but it is likely to stay on the lower side throughout May due to cleaner air and rain.”

Paul added, “Air pollutants are known to decrease the amount of rain in the city. This year, we have received more than average rain in both April and May so far.”

Member secretary of CPCC, TC Nautiyal, said pollutant levels were less than half of what they used to be in previous years. “However, this is a short-term relief as pollution will go up again after industries reopen and vehicles start to ply. We need to push for concepts like carpooling and cycling to improve air quality.”

Chairperson of department of environment studies in Panjab University, Suman Mor, said, “Thanks to the lockdown, greenhouse gas emissions - known to make the weather warmer - have also reduced. People need to change their habits to bring down pollution permanently.”

Paul said temperature is likely to stay on the lower side throughout this week, with chances of light to moderate rain on Thursday and Friday.