Bhubaneswar: Air quality in three urban areas of Odisha deteriorated to the ‘very poor’ category on Thursday, with Balasore emerging as the most polluted town in the country, according to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
As per the Air Quality Index (AQI), Balasore recorded a severe AQI value of 338, placing it at the top of the national pollution chart. Talcher in Angul district followed closely, ranking as the second most polluted town in India with an AQI of 320. Baripada in Mayurbhanj district also reported very poor air quality, registering an AQI of 301.
The CPCB data indicates that Odisha accounted for three of the most polluted urban centres in the country on Thursday, highlighting growing concerns over air quality in the state.
Besides Odisha, the CPCB classified air quality in Haldia (West Bengal), Rupnagar (Punjab) and Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) as very poor. Haldia recorded an AQI of 316, Rupnagar 311 and Visakhapatnam 303.
Health experts have warned that prolonged exposure to very poor air quality can lead to respiratory ailments and aggravate existing health conditions, particularly among children, the elderly and those with pre-existing respiratory diseases.
Authorities have advised residents in affected areas to limit prolonged outdoor activities and take precautionary measures as pollution levels remain elevated.
