Air pollution has become a major concern across several parts of North India following a sharp deterioration in air quality around the Diwali festival. Several cities have reported extremely high Air Quality Index (AQI) readings, raising concerns about public health and environmental conditions.Bathinda in Punjab, Mathura in Uttar Pradesh and Rohtak in Haryana have emerged among the affected cities, with pollution levels reaching alarming figures. According to reports, AQI readings in several locations crossed 500, while some monitoring stations recorded even higher levels.
Bathinda witnessed a significant deterioration in air quality.
On November 8, the city’s AQI was reported at 670 by one monitoring update, placing it in the hazardous category. Elevated concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 were among the major contributors to the poor air quality.Mathura also experienced severe pollution. An AQI reading of 501 was reported on November 8, indicating hazardous conditions and increasing health concerns for residents.Rohtak in Haryana also experienced unhealthy air conditions. Pollution levels rose sharply around the festival period, with earlier reports indicating extremely high readings.
The deterioration in air quality has raised concerns among residents, particularly children, senior citizens and people suffering from respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
Weather Changes May Bring Some Relief
Weather conditions are also being closely monitored as a western disturbance is expected to influence parts of northern India. Rainfall and snowfall are forecast in several Himalayan regions from November 10 onwards.Changes in wind patterns and precipitation may influence pollution levels, although the extent of any improvement will depend on local weather conditions.The worsening air quality has once again highlighted the need for effective pollution-control measures and greater public awareness, particularly during the winter and festive seasons.
