As winter approaches, air pollution levels are reaching critical levels in Odisha, turning the state's industrial and twin cities into pollution hotspots.
On Tuesday, Angul recorded an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) of 340, making it the sixth most polluted city in the country, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This "very poor" air quality poses serious respiratory health risks.
The twin cities of Cuttack (AQI 332) and Bhubaneswar (AQI 321) are also struggling with poor air quality. A heavy, smoky haze has reduced daytime visibility, forcing many commuters to wear masks.
Nationally, the pollution crisis persists, with Hapur, UP, ranking as the most polluted city, and Delhi, Noida, and Greater Noida also reporting hazardous air quality, leading to measures like 'work from home' in the National Capital Region.