North India, particularly Delhi-NCR, is dealing with one of the worst pollution crises. The AQI went over 1500 in Delhi this week. Amidst that, Google has introduced Air View+. It is an AI-powered ecosystem that gives you air quality insights about different areas. Basically, a Google Maps to tell you the AQI. Air View+ will provide air quality data from over 150 cities, and with this, Google aims to help both the government as well as the citizens.
Air View+ integrates advanced air quality sensors with Google’s AI to monitor pollutants such as PM2.5, PM10, CO2, NO2, ozone, and VOCs, along with temperature and humidity. For this, Google has collaborated with local climate-tech firms Aurassure and Respirer Living Sciences. The system generates real-time data which is validated by researchers from IIT Delhi, IIT Hyderabad, and other institutions.
This data is then processed by Google using AI to give users detailed air quality insights that align with the National Air Quality Index (NAQI). This ensures accuracy and gives users a heads up too.
Government organisations can use the hyperlocal air quality dashboards of their cities, to pinpoint pollution hotspots and implement targeted measures. These dashboards allow for monitoring in areas that previously lacked infrastructure.
Citizens can also access real-time air quality data through Google Maps. It now has a new Air Quality layer. It integrates sensor data with inputs from satellites, government sources, and weather conditions. Air View+ then calculates precise AQI numbers. Vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly, can use this information to reduce outdoor exposure or wear protective gear like N95 masks.
Step 1: Go to Google Maps.
Step 2: Tap the Layer button on the home screen to select the Air Quality option or you can use the Explore tab’s Weather widget for AQI updates at your location.
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