Patna: As discussions on deteriorating air quality gain momentum, particularly with the onset of wintry conditions and Diwali firecracker celebrations, the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) is reaching out to citizens, urging them to report violations of air pollution norms through its dedicated Air Pollution Control Room.
In a statement released on Monday, BSPCB Chairman Devendra Kumar Shukla appealed to the public to remain vigilant about the ambient air quality in their surroundings. Instances of air pollution, such as open burning of agricultural and solid waste, construction without covering, road construction using coal tar, vehicle movement on unpaved roads without water sprinkling, and operation of diesel generators emitting black smoke, can be reported to the Air Pollution Control Room via WhatsApp at Mobile Numbers: 8227057985 and 9304750324. Submissions should include evidence and details of violators, such as names and addresses, to facilitate appropriate actions to improve air quality.
BSPCB emphasized that the main culprit behind the deterioration of ambient air quality in Bihar is the presence of particulate matter, specifically particulate matter less than 10 microns (PM10) and (PM2.5). The quality of ambient air is influenced by geographical and anthropogenic factors, including fine dust in the alluvial soil of North Bihar, temperature reduction, thermal inversion during winter, lower wind speeds affecting pollutant dispersion, and various activities like burning agricultural waste, uncovered construction work, and indiscriminate vehicle use.
While the ambient air quality in the state has experienced deterioration, officials clarified that it has not yet reached the severe category. The BSPCB has formed monitoring teams to assess and improve air quality. Reports from these teams highlight widespread open burning of agricultural waste, wood, coal, and uncovered construction activities in Patna and other cities. The Board is imposing Environmental Compensation on violators and those engaged in illegal activities.
Responding to reports comparing Patna’s ambient air quality index to Chernobyl, BSPCB’s Chairman Shukla clarified that the ecological and environmental contexts of Chernobyl and Bihar are distinct, cautioning against direct comparisons of their Air Quality Index (AQI) statuses.
