Poor Air Quality Grips Six Urban Areas in Odisha, Raises Health Concerns

Bhubaneswar: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has flagged the air quality in six urban areas of Odisha as “very poor”.

Cities including Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Balasore, Baripada, Keonjhar, and Rairangpur have been categorized under the “very poor” air quality by the CPCB.

According to CPCB data, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 311 in Bhubaneswar, 320 in Cuttack, 334 in Balasore, 316 in Baripada, 314 in Keonjhar, and 308 in Rairangpur.

Notably, Balasore in Odisha recorded a more alarming air pollution level with an index value of 333 compared to Delhi’s 333 on the same day.

Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to very poor air quality can lead to respiratory illnesses. Even exposure to poor air quality can cause discomfort in breathing for the residents.