North News
Chandigarh, November 14
Chandigarh is grappling with severe air pollution, with the air quality index (AQI) reaching an alarming 425 on Thursday, making it worst in the country. Classified as “severe,” this AQI level poses significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, officials warned. IMD Chandigarh Director Surender Paul told the media that the fog currently affecting the city is unusual for November, especially with temperatures still above average for the season. “Typically, fog is observed in December, starting late at night or early in the morning. Daytime fog is generally seen during peak winter months,” Paul explained.
On Wednesday, Chandigarh ranked as the fifth most polluted city in India, with an average AQI of 372 at 4 p.m. Cities like Delhi (418), Hajipur (Bihar) (417), Saharsa (Bihar) (379), and Bhiwani (Haryana) (375) were more polluted than Chandigarh, according to the pollution bulletin.
