In the News
June 5, 2019
Bhubaneswar: Here is some disturbing news for Odisha as the world prepares to observe World Environment Day on Wednesday. Six cities of Odisha are among the 102 most polluted in India.
Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Balasore, Angul, Talcher, and Rourkela have failed to maintain the national ambient air quality standards fixed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Whatever be the season, women can be found walking on the busy streets of Bhubaneswar, their faces covered with a dupatta. The sight becomes more common as you move towards the industrial belt of the state.
Bhubaneswar witnessed the worst foggy sky in its history this winter. According to a report of the Odisha State Pollution Control Board, Bhubaneswar is recording an alarming level of suspended particulate matter (SPM) in air. It leads to serious aggravation of heart and lung diseases and increases the risk of premature death. It could also lead to cardio-respiratory diseases.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) in its hearing on November 10, 2018 observed that in Odisha, the primary reasons of air pollution are vehicular emission, road dust, industrial pollution, pollution from construction, and demolition work.
University of Chicago’s Air Quality Life Index suggests that residents in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar could live 2.7 years longer if the government meets the WHO air quality standards.