GUWAHATI: Tripura’s Agartala has emerged as the latest Northeastern city to record alarming levels of air pollution, joining the ranks of Guwahati and Byrnihat in registering dangerous Air Quality Index (AQI) levels.
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According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)’s recent data, the state capital of Tripura has seen a consistent rise in air pollution, particularly due to ozone (O₃), a relatively uncommon primary pollutant in the region.
On Monday, April 28, Agartala’s AQI stood at 231, placing it in the ‘Poor’ category. The situation was more severe on April 27, when the AQI touched 333, categorised as ‘Very Poor’—the second worst in the country after Hanumangarh.
Prior to this, the city topped the national list on April 23 and 24, with AQI levels at 339 and 332 respectively. On April 22, the AQI was recorded at 312 as well, maintaining its ‘Very Poor’ classification.
Unlike the commonly seen PM2.5-induced pollution in Indian cities, Agartala’s primary pollutant has been ozone. Ozone levels are known to spike on sunny days and can pose serious respiratory risks, particularly for individuals with asthma. It can also damage vegetation and ecosystems, especially during the growing season.
Earlier this year, Guwahati faced a similar pollution crisis, as on January 28, the city recorded PM2.5 levels of 258, placing it in the ‘Poor’ category and ranking it sixth among India's most polluted cities.
Meanwhile, in March, Byrnihat near Assam recorded the highest pollution levels in the region, as on March 19, the AQI peaked at 386, with PM2.5 being the dominant pollutant. At its worst, the area once recorded an AQI of 500.
Notably, Byrnihat, home to multiple industrial units including cement and iron factories, has consistently ranked as the world’s most polluted location throughout 2024 and beyond.