Thick smog has enveloped Ludhiana, bringing the city’s air quality index (AQI) to 241, which falls under the ‘poor’ category and resembles the levels seen post-Diwali. This decline in air quality, attributed to paddy straw burning and westerly winds, has led to a noticeable increase in health issues, with Ludhiana’s civil hospital reporting a threefold rise in patients with respiratory and cardiac conditions.
As of November 11, Ludhiana recorded 171 cases of stubble burning across the district, resulting in fines amounting to approximately ₹3 lakh in 82 of these cases. Authorities have registered 99 cases, issued 40 warnings, and initiated prosecution in one instance.
Experts from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) explained that this persistent smog is a blend of seasonal fog and pollution, compounded by particulate matter (PM) 2.5 and PM 10, both of which pose significant health risks. PM 2.5 particles are particularly concerning due to their ability to penetrate deep into the lungs, as noted by pulmonologist Dr. Pardeep Kapoor.
With no rain forecasted in the coming days, which could potentially alleviate the pollution, the situation is expected to remain challenging. PAU’s experts indicate that stubble burning may continue until the wheat sowing window closes by mid-November, potentially improving conditions afterward.
Visibility issues have also emerged due to the thick smog, creating road safety concerns. Commuters report struggles with faded road markings and lack of visibility aids, while the municipal corporation’s Public Works Department (PWD) has prepared a proposal, with tenders worth ₹4.56 crore, to address these issues.
Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal confirmed the accurate reporting of fire incidents through satellite data and noted that local authorities are acting in alignment with the directives from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) and the state government.
Sources By Agencies
