NASHIK: After affecting normal life in Karachi, Pakistan, a massive dust storm has reached Maharashtra via Gujarat, Arabian Sea. Due to this, rain has started in Konkan and cold winds have started in Mumbai, Pune and Maharashtra yesterday. Due to this, visibility has reduced in north Konkan and Madhya Maharashtra.
The dust storm which swept through Gujarat and south Rajasthan may continue to have an effect till the next 12 hours, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.
“Dust storm or dust raising winds in association with surface winds at a wind speed of 30-40 kmph gusting to 50 kmph, is likely over many places of Saurashtra and Kutch, and at isolated places over adjoining Gujarat
region and south Rajasthan,” said IMD’s senior scientist R K Jenamani, adding, This was valid till Sunday morning for next 12 hours.
Dust storm in Pakistan is affecting the environment of the state. Visibility between Mumbai and other cities has been very low since morning. Dust particles are mixed in the air. There are white spots on many vehicles and objects due to rain in many parts on Saturday and yesterday. There is an atmosphere of fear among the citizens due to the sudden change in the climate.
The dust storm had hit Karachi in Pakistan. It has moved towards Rajasthan and Gujarat. That is why the atmosphere has been getting muddy and dusty since morning.
The effect of this fog storm was also seen in Nashik. Dust spread were seen on many roads including highways As a result, citizens had to face many difficulties while driving. Meanwhile, air quality in Mumbai has seen a decline. The overall air quality index in Mumbai is at 180.
The air quality index in Malad and Mazgaon has crossed 300. Air quality in both places is in very poor range, AQI 316 in Malad. Mazgaon has 315 AQI. It has been cloudy in Mumbai since morning and fog was seen in many places.
The meteorological department had forecast sparse and light showers in Mumbai, Pune, Konkan and parts of central Maharashtra yesterday. Similarly, Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Nandurbar, Dhule, Nashik and Jalgaon received showers at midnight on Saturday.
Dust storms, if severe, and over a longer time, also adversely affect agriculture, especially cotton. The concerns of grape growers are increased in the district.
