Chandigarh Air Quality Plummets into Hazardous Zone
The air quality in Chandigarh has taken a steep downturn this December, with pollution levels hitting alarming highs.
Riley Harper
- 2023-12-26
- Updated 10:59 PM ET
Residents awoke on Tuesday to find a dense haze blanketing the city as the Air Quality Index (AQI) approached hazardous levels. The AQI figure neared 364, signaling severe air quality that poses health risks for all demographic groups. In the morning, the AQI was significantly lower at around 164, underscoring the rapid deterioration of air conditions throughout the day. Close inspection revealed that the areas around Mohali and some central sectors of Chandigarh bore the brunt of this onslaught of pollution, with recorded AQI levels far exceeding the city average.
Variation in Citywide Air Pollution
Despite the overall poor air quality, parts of Chandigarh have fared slightly better in terms of pollution levels. While Sector-53 near Mohali reached an AQI pinnacle of 364, other central sectors such as Sector-25 reported an AQI of 275, Sector-22 at 344, and other city areas recording relatively lower levels. This variability across the city has caused concern and calls for immediate action from local authorities.
Experts from the Chandigarh Pollution Control Committee have been taken by surprise at the rise in pollution levels, particularly in December, a time typically unaffected by factors like stubble burning or festival fireworks. The increase in pollution is especially concerning as it coincides with cold weather and fog, a combination that can lead to respiratory difficulties among the city's populace. Vehicle emissions and industrial activity are being cited as primary contributors to the air quality crisis. The weather in Chandigarh is intensifying, with cold conditions contributing to the overall discomfort. Meteorologists have forecast a slight decrease in temperature over the upcoming three to four days, potentially exacerbating the situation. Tuesday's weather readings showed a peak temperature of 21.5 degrees Celsius and a low of 8 degrees Celsius, figures that are considered normal for the season.
Urgent Responses Called For Amidst Pollution Surge
The unexpected December pollution spike in Chandigarh is not only surprising for its timing but also for its intensity, stoking fears among public health advocates and city officials alike. With no traditional sources like agriculture fires or festive fireworks contributing to the current levels, attention is now turning to vehicular and industrial emissions. The current situation calls for an urgent reassessment of the city's air quality management and mitigation strategies to protect the health of its residents as winter weather deepens.
