Patna Ranks Second in India for Poor Air Quality, Urgent Measures Needed

GG News Bureau
Patna, 6th May. Patna, the capital city of Bihar, ranked as the second most polluted city in India on Sunday, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 316, classified as ‘very poor’. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), this level of air pollution poses significant health risks, particularly respiratory illnesses upon prolonged exposure.

Several other cities in Bihar also reported poor air quality, including Siwan (282), Muzaffarpur (233), Hajipur (232), and Bettiah (221). The situation in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, was even worse, topping the charts with an AQI of 346.

The deteriorating air quality in Bihar has been attributed to various factors, including low wind speed, ongoing construction activities without adequate pollution control measures, and recent fire incidents in Patna and surrounding areas. Devendra Kumar Shukla, Chairman of the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB), highlighted the need for immediate action to address the situation.

Shukla emphasized the importance of measures such as sprinkling water on roads to reduce dust particles and mitigate air pollution. He also mentioned that rainfall would provide temporary relief from the pollution levels. Additionally, the BSPCB plans to intensify its efforts to monitor and control air quality in affected cities across the state.

The alarming AQI levels underscore the urgent need for coordinated efforts from authorities, civic bodies, and residents to combat air pollution and safeguard public health. Awareness campaigns, strict enforcement of pollution control measures, and investment in cleaner technologies are essential to mitigate the impact of air pollution in Bihar and other affected regions.