Air Quality ‘Very Poor’ in 15 Cities, Angul and Balasore Affected

Bhubaneswar: Air quality in 15 urban areas across the country, including two towns in Odisha, was recorded in the ‘very poor’ category on Sunday, according to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

In Odisha, Angul and Balasore reported very poor air quality, with Air Quality Index (AQI) values of 318 and 333 respectively. The CPCB’s Air Quality Index bulletin also placed 13 other cities across India in the same category.

Among the affected cities were Baddi (334), Delhi (337), Dharuhera (326), Ghaziabad (364), Greater Noida (329), Gummidipoondi (316), Gurugram (326), Jind (322), Karnal (302), Noida (327), Panchkula (339), Rohtak (337) and Singrauli (341).

Experts have warned that prolonged exposure to ‘very poor’ air quality can lead to respiratory illnesses and other health complications, particularly among children, the elderly and people with pre-existing health conditions.

Authorities have advised residents in affected areas to limit outdoor activities and take necessary precautions to reduce exposure to air pollution.