Weather Update: AQI crosses 300 in Punjab-Chandigarh, yellow alert issued, incidents of stubble burning reduced.

Punjab weather update: There has been no significant change in the temperature of Punjab and Chandigarh during the last 24 hours. The temperature was found to be 2.2 degrees above normal. According to the Meteorological Department, the weather will remain dry in Punjab and Chandigarh for the next one week. But the increasing level of pollution will trouble people. The Punjab government claims that compared to last year, there has been a 16 percent reduction in the incidents of stubble burning. But in the last 24 hours, the pollution level in many cities of Punjab including Chandigarh has crossed 300.

At present, except Mandi Gobindgarh, the pollution level of all other cities is in the yellow zone. While the average air quality index (AQI) in Mandi Gobindgarh was recorded at 226. Also, AQI 322 was recorded here at 6 pm on Thursday. So far, 1,638 incidents of farm fires have been recorded in Punjab, which is 16 percent less than last year. Till October 23 last year, there were 1,946 incidents of farm fires in the state.

Punjab Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian said that the reduction in stubble burning incidents is a testament to the concerted efforts of the Punjab government and the farming community. Our initiatives including provision of CRM machines and appointment of nodal officers are showing positive results.

When the pollution level crosses 100, certain steps are taken as per the guidelines of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and local administration in India. Air Quality Index (AQI) level above 100 means the air is unhealthy, especially for sensitive groups like children, elderly, pregnant women and people with respiratory problems, hence the following guidelines are issued:-

Advice to vulnerable groups: Children, the elderly and respiratory patients are advised to limit physical activity and stay indoors.

Monitoring of emissions in urban and industrial areas: Industrial units are instructed to reduce emissions. Construction activities may be restricted.