Patna Records ‘Very Poor’ Air Quality, Ranked Second Most Polluted City in India

Patna - On Sunday, Patna was ranked as the second most polluted city in India, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 316, which is classified as ‘very poor’. Other cities in Bihar that recorded ‘poor’ AQI include Siwan (282), Muzaffarpur (233), Hajipur (232), and Bettiah (221).

According to the 4 pm bulletin from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh was the most polluted city in the country, with an AQI of 346.

The CPCB warns that ‘very poor’ air quality can cause respiratory illness upon prolonged exposure. The AQI is an assessment of air quality that takes into account pollutants, including PM 2.5 – particulate matter less than 2.5 microns, and PM 10.

Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) chairman Devendra Kumar Shukla acknowledged the deteriorating air quality in certain cities of the state. He attributed this to low wind speed, ongoing construction activities without following pollution control measures, and recent fire incidents in Patna and surrounding areas.

Shukla stated that civic bodies will have to start sprinkling water to check the deteriorating AQI in the state capital. “Rain will certainly bring some immediate relief. The BSPCB will soon intensify its drive to check deteriorating AQI levels in certain cities of the state,” he added.

As guardians of the environment, the BSPCB maintains an unwavering commitment to improving air quality and ensuring the health and safety of the residents. The board urges everyone to contribute to pollution control measures and help create a cleaner and healthier environment.