Chandigarh, 12 November 2024: Air quality in Punjab and Chandigarh has plummeted to hazardous levels, with Chandigarh’s Air Quality Index (AQI) nearing 400, classified as “severe.”
The worsening pollution has enveloped the region in a thick, toxic haze, significantly reducing visibility and posing severe health risks to residents.
In Chandigarh, the iconic Sukhna Lake is shrouded in smog, making it difficult for commuters and pedestrians to navigate. The drastic decline in air quality is largely due to the burning of paddy straw (parali) in neighboring states combined with the widespread use of firecrackers during recent festive celebrations. These factors have contributed to the spike in pollution, especially in the aftermath of Diwali, leading to a visible layer of smog blanketing the city.
Across Punjab, the situation remains dire as AQI levels in most districts hover around 200, a range considered “very unhealthy” according to air quality standards.
Despite efforts to mitigate pollution through air purifiers and other interventions, the measures have failed to significantly alleviate the toxic air in Chandigarh and its surrounding areas, resulting in escalating health issues among the population.
Experts warn that the hazardous air quality poses significant health risks, particularly respiratory problems. Increasing reports of sore throats, dry coughs, and scratchy throats indicate widespread exposure to the polluted air. Health professionals caution that prolonged exposure can worsen pre-existing conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic lung diseases. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and those with weakened immune systems, face a higher risk of severe health complications.
Additionally, prolonged exposure to such poor air quality may elevate the risk of cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, and complications during pregnancy. The toxic air can also increase the likelihood of respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), making it a critical public health concern.
Given the severity of the pollution, health experts are advising the public to take preventive measures. “Residents should consider wearing N95 masks, limiting outdoor activities, and seeking medical advice at the onset of respiratory symptoms,” advised a local health official.
As the air quality continues to deteriorate, urgent steps are needed to address the underlying causes and mitigate the impact on public health.
