Bhubaneswar: Air quality in several parts of Odisha has deteriorated sharply, with pollution levels now exceeding those recorded in major metropolitan cities, including Delhi. According to the latest air quality data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Balasore has emerged as the most polluted city in India, registering an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 338, which falls under the “very poor” category. Such conditions pose significant health risks, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions.
Seven cities from Odisha are among the ten most polluted cities nationwide. Balasore tops the list, followed by Talcher with an AQI of 320. Baripada ranks sixth with an AQI of 301. Other cities reporting severe pollution include Haldia in West Bengal (316), Rupnagar in Punjab (311), and Visakhapatnam (303), according to data.
Within the state, air quality remained poor across several locations. Angul reported an AQI of 276, while Cuttack and Vyasanagar registered readings of 262 and 260, respectively. Bhubaneswar recorded an AQI of 239, with Rourkela comparatively lower at 178.
The CPCB published the figures in its 4 pm average AQI bulletin on Thursday, based on air quality monitoring over the previous 24 hours. Nationwide, six cities were placed in the red zone for very poor air quality, with three of them located in Odisha. An AQI reading between 300 and 400 is considered very poor.
Several major urban centres recorded relatively better air quality. Delhi reported an AQI of 234, Faridabad 215, Chennai 150, Bengaluru 118, Chandigarh 186, Mumbai 104, Lucknow 163, and Hyderabad 99.
Limited air movement and seasonal weather patterns are being cited as contributing factors to the spike in pollution across urban centres during the winter months. However, experts point out that emissions from growing traffic, dust generated by continuous construction work, and the burning of waste remain the primary sources of pollution, particularly in cities such as Balasore, Baripada, Bhubaneswar, and Cuttack.
