Srinagar: Conflicting “AQI” readings on mobile apps and websites have left many residents worried about what they are breathing this winter. The J&K Pollution Control Committee (JKPCC) has now pushed back, saying the recent alarm around Srinagar’s air quality is being driven by unreliable sources and that citizens should rely on official data. Check the CPCB National AQI portal for station-wise readings.
Core News Details – The Facts
According to a statement given to Greater Kashmir, JKPCC said media reports citing high particulate matter levels were based on “unreliable third-party automatic sensors” and “unverified and non-calibrated sources”. The committee advised the public to refer to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) for city and station-specific air quality data generated using calibrated systems.
JKPCC Chairperson Vasu Yadav was quoted saying some platforms also rely on satellite-based inputs, which can be erroneous for local ground-level conditions. He added that CPCB readings are based on scientific methods, and that manual station trends match the Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring System (CAAQMS) trends.
The Greater Kashmir report also notes that, at the time of the JKPCC remarks, different portals showed a “moderately polluted” picture, while station-wise CPCB readings cited in the report varied across Srinagar locations (example: Raj Bagh and Khanmoh).
The Local Impact / Official Reaction
For Srinagar residents—especially children, seniors, and people with asthma or heart conditions—the practical takeaway is to follow station-wise official readings, not a single city-wide number from unknown sensors. JKPCC’s position is that confusion is being fuelled by equipment that lacks proper calibration and validation.
Air quality in Kashmir can change quickly with weather. The report notes that conditions worsened in December during cold, dry spells and inversions, and improved again after rainfall/snowfall in early 2026.
Key Highlights Box
- JKPCC claim: Public concerns are “unfounded” when based on non-calibrated third-party sources
- What to do: Use the CPCB National AQI portal for station-wise data
- Why readings differ: Weather, inversions, and varying sensors can change AQI quickly across areas
FAQ
A1: It can vary by area and hour. JKPCC has urged people to check station-wise data on the CPCB National AQI portal rather than relying on third-party sensors or pooled app data.
A2: JKPCC says some platforms use unverified or non-calibrated sensors (and sometimes satellite inputs), which can produce inconsistent readings. Official systems use standard protocols and calibrated methods.
A3: As per the J&K Pollution Control Committee’s AQI guidance, “Moderate” can cause breathing discomfort for people with lung/heart conditions, while “Poor/Very Poor” can trigger broader respiratory impacts on prolonged exposure.
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AUTHORSHIP & TRANSPARENCY
Author: Gowhar Nabi
Sign-off: Reported by Gowhar Nabi | Edited by Senior Desk.
Source Transparency: Information in this article is based on a report published by Greater Kashmir and the CPCB National AQI portal.
Disclaimer (Health): Note: Verify details from the official website before acting. KittoNews is not responsible for errors.
Community Question: Do you rely on AQI apps, or do you check official station-wise data? Share your experience in the comments.
Accountability Footer: Found an error? Email kittonews@gmail.com.
