On Friday, the AQI readings for several locations — Worli (MPCB) and Mazagaon (IITM) experienced moderate AQI while Borivali East, Chembur, and Kandivali — were in the 'good' category

Observing this contrast, citizens are left wondering which parameter one should go by before deciding to take a morning walk or send their children downstairs to play

Mumbai's iconic skyline disappears behind a curtain of smog on Friday afternoon

According to Bikram Singh, regional head, RMC Mumbai, the southeasterly winds in lower levels and anticyclonic circulation in middle tropospheric levels are responsible for the low visibility the city was experiencing in the past few days. "However, it has already begun clearing up. The pollutants and moisture had stagnated and added haziness to the air, reducing visibility. With changing winds, the pollutants will lift, and the air is expected to clear up in the coming days. All in all, the AQI can help you assess the pollution, while the visibility can be controlled by meteorological factors," he says

Meanwhile, the weather bureau issued a yellow alert for Mumbai and its nearby districts, warning of possible heatwave conditions on Friday and the following days.