Residents of Panchkula witnessed a marginal improvement in the city's air quality on Monday, though the atmosphere continues to pose significant health hazards. The air quality index (AQI) shifted from the 'very poor' category to 'poor', offering little respite from the hazardous conditions that have gripped the region.
A Slight Dip in Pollution Levels
According to the 24-hour average AQI data, Panchkula recorded an index of 254 on Monday. This marks a notable decrease from the previous day, Sunday, when the AQI stood at a much higher 339. While this decline indicates a positive trend, the current 'poor' classification is far from safe. For context, the city's air remains cleaner than that of Delhi (377), Ghaziabad (364), and Singrauli (341), but the comparative relief is minimal.
Persistent Health and Environmental Threats
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) states that an AQI between 201 and 300 falls under the 'poor' category. This level signifies that most people may experience breathing discomfort upon prolonged exposure. The sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiac issues, are at an even greater risk.
Despite the alarming figures and clear public health warnings, a major source of pollution continues unchecked. Open garbage burning remains rampant across the city, contributing significantly to the toxic smog. Environmentalists and concerned citizens point out that the local administration has failed to take visible, concrete action to curb this practice or implement broader anti-pollution measures effectively.
A Governance Challenge Amidst Public Concern
The ongoing situation raises serious questions about environmental governance and public health policy in Panchkula. The continued exposure of residents to hazardous air has sparked worry, blending health anxieties with frustration over administrative inaction. The gap between recorded data and on-ground remedial steps highlights a critical challenge in urban pollution management.
As winter approaches and meteorological conditions become more favorable for pollution accumulation, the need for a proactive and stringent action plan is more urgent than ever. The marginal improvement in AQI is a fragile gain that could easily be reversed without immediate intervention to stop practices like garbage burning and to enforce comprehensive air quality protocols.
