Amritsar grapples with poor air quality, surpassing Ludhiana’s AQI

Amritsar’s air quality has taken a turn for the worse, earning it the title of most polluted city in Punjab, according to the Central Pollution Control Board’s Air Quality Index (AQI). The city’s AQI levels from October 26 to 30, were 228, 310, 160, 185, and 185, respectively. In comparison, Ludhiana’s AQI levels during the same period were significantly lower, ranging from 159 to 133.

Bathinda shows significant improvement, dropping from AQI 381 to 131. On October 30, 2023, Bathinda’s AQI was recorded at 381 but today, it recorded 131.

Amritsar District Commissioner Sakshi Sawhney attributes the city’s poor air quality to weather phenomena, citing no recent stubble burning incidents within the district. However, she notes that Amritsar’s proximity to the border makes it possible for farm fires from neighbouring areas to impact air quality. Sawhney suggests that weather experts would be better equipped to provide a definitive explanation.

Dr KK Gill, an expert from the Agrometeorology department of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), offered insights into Amritsar’s poor air quality. “We’ve observed that Tarn Taran and Amritsar areas have recorded the maximum stubble burning cases,” Dr Gill said.

Additionally, Dr Gill pointed out that Amritsar’s lower temperature compared to other districts like Ludhiana and Patiala contributes to its poor air quality. “The lower temperature causes air particles to become trapped, leading to deteriorating air quality in Amritsar,” she explained.

Today, Amritsar recorded AQI 185, Ludhiana 133 and Mandi Gobindgarh 156.