Odisha has broken pollution records, with Talcher emerging as the most polluted city in the country.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Talcher touched 355, placing it at the top of India’s pollution charts.
Alongside Talcher, Angul, Baripada, Cuttack, and Bhubaneswar also reported extremely poor AQI levels. Angul recorded 329, Baripada 324, Cuttack 304, and Bhubaneswar 302. These figures place four Odisha cities among the six most polluted cities in India.
Odisha’s Pollution Crisis
Experts warn that AQI levels above 300 fall into the “hazardous” category, posing severe health risks. Residents in Talcher and Angul face the worst conditions, with industrial emissions and coal-based activities contributing heavily to the crisis.
National Context
While several cities across India struggle with poor air quality, Odisha’s dominance in the list highlights the urgent need for stricter pollution control measures. Authorities are expected to intensify monitoring and enforcement in industrial belts to curb emissions.
Public Impact
The hazardous AQI levels raise concerns about respiratory illnesses, reduced visibility, and long-term health impacts. Citizens are advised to limit outdoor exposure, use protective masks, and follow health advisories during peak pollution hours.
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