Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Jan 21: Amid rising public concern over air pollution, the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) on Tuesday presented an overview of ambient air quality trends recorded across the state from January to December 2025, stating that Goa’s overall air quality scenario remains “not worrying”.
According to the data, locations such as Vasco, Baina, Ponda and Kundaim periodically recorded Air Quality Index (AQI) levels shifting from ‘satisfactory’ to ‘moderate’. However, the board clarified that these fluctuations were largely due to localised activities and not sustained or industrial pollution.
Presenting trend data from 18 air quality monitoring stations across Goa, the GSPCB noted that 14 stations consistently reported AQI levels ranging from ‘good’ to ‘moderate’, with no alarming deviations throughout the year.
A GSPCB scientist explained that the temporary variations observed in certain areas were mainly attributable to road digging, construction activity, traffic congestion and re-suspension of road dust. “These changes are not linked to industrial emissions,” the official said.
Explaining the 2025 AQI trend, GSPCB scientist Mohan Girap said AQI is a composite index based on parameters such as PM10, PM2.5, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. “Particulate matter was the dominant contributor in most locations. Marine aerosols and seasonal changes also influence coastal readings,” he added.
GSPCB chairman Levinson Martins urged the public not to rely on AQI figures displayed on private platforms. “Citizens should refer only to official data available on the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) website, which is updated monthly following scientific protocols,” he said.
Martins said air quality monitoring in Goa is conducted under the National Air Monitoring Programme (NAMP) of the CPCB, with ambient air quality being monitored twice a week at each station.
Responding to queries on the absence of monitoring stations in high-traffic areas such as Old Goa, Corlim and Verna, Martins clarified that ambient monitoring stations cannot be installed directly at pollution sources. “Site selection depends on population exposure, wind patterns, representativeness, availability of open space and distance from obstructions. However, we do have two mobile monitoring vans that can be deployed,” he said.
The GSPCB assured that it will continue close surveillance and mitigation measures at identified hotspots, reiterating that Goa’s air quality remains stable and is not a cause for alarm.