Air Quality Deteriorates in Rajasthan, Ganganagar Reports Highest AQI Levels

Ganganagar, November 10 (Daily Kiran) : Air quality remains a significant concern in Rajasthan, with pollution levels continuing to rise days after Diwali celebrations. Several cities have reported Air Quality Index (AQI) figures exceeding 200 for the second consecutive day.

According to pollution data released on Tuesday, many areas in the state are experiencing alarmingly high pollution levels, with little improvement in air quality. Ganganagar leads the state with an AQI of 272, followed closely by Alwar at 270 and Bikaner at 259. Other cities, including Churu, Bhiwadi, and Hanumangarh, also recorded elevated AQI levels.

In Jaipur, the air quality is troubling, with many regions showing poor air conditions. Ganganagar tops the list of the most polluted cities in Rajasthan, highlighting a critical environmental issue. Following Ganganagar, Alwar and Bikaner also report concerning AQI levels.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicates that Hanumangarh has an AQI of 248, Churu at 242, Bhiwadi at 246, Chittorgarh at 240, Kota at 218, and Bharatpur at 201. These figures reflect the widespread air pollution problem across Rajasthan.

Both Ganganagar and Alwar’s air quality fall into the ‘very poor’ category, while numerous other cities remain in the ‘poor’ range. In Jaipur, there has been no significant improvement, with the Mansarovar area recording the highest AQI of 230. The Police Commissionerate area follows closely at 228, and Shastri Nagar at 221. Other localities report relatively lower AQI levels, such as Adarsh Nagar at 163, Murli Pura at 162, and Sitapura at 157.

The data indicates that air quality in several parts of Jaipur, particularly in Mansarovar and Shastri Nagar, remains poor. The extensive use of fireworks during Diwali has significantly increased particulate matter and other harmful pollutants in the air.

However, fireworks are not the sole cause of deteriorating air quality. Emissions from vehicles, industrial waste, construction activities, and road dust are also contributing factors. The combination of these elements has prevented air quality from returning to normal levels even after the festival.

The rising pollution levels pose a serious risk, especially for individuals suffering from asthma, respiratory diseases, or heart conditions. Exposure to polluted air can lead to breathing difficulties, coughing, throat irritation, and other health issues.

Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities, particularly in the mornings and late evenings when pollution levels tend to peak. Those experiencing persistent breathing difficulties or other symptoms should seek medical advice.

Officials have warned that AQI levels remain high in several cities across Rajasthan. For meaningful relief from polluted air, residents may need to wait for significant improvements in weather and atmospheric conditions.