Angul and Talcher in Odisha are among India’s most polluted cities, with Angul’s AQI at 323 and Talcher’s at 302. Industrial emissions are a key factor.

In a matter of concern, Angul and Talcher in Odisha found place among the most polluted cities across the country.

As per the information published in the Sameer App of Central Pollution Control Board on Friday, Angul is the fourth polluted city in India with Air Quality Index (AQI) of 323 while Talcher being the sixth polluted city in the country with AQI of 302.

As per the Central Pollution Control Board, the quality of air in both the cities has been categorized as  ‘very poor’. Meanwhile, the quality of air in Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Balasore has also become very poor.

As per the environmentalists, Air Quality Index is deteriorating in Bhubaneswar due to construction activities. The dust particles are remaining in the lower layer due to lower temperature in winter.

As per the information published in the Sameer App by 10.5 am today, Angul was the most polluted city in India with AQI of 332. It is followed by Agartala with AQI of 315, Howrah with AQI of 314 and Barnihat with AQI of 312.

Notably, Angul-Talcher industrial area has been identified as one of the world’s largest Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) emission hot-spots.

According to the environmentalists, the main reason for increasing pollution levels in Angul-Talcher area is the coal mines, thermal power plants, aluminium smelter plant and several other industries. 

If the AQI remains within 151-200, the city falls under Red Category. It suggests that the air quality is harmful for the health of people in many cities of Odisha.