Times News Network
Ludhiana: Stepping out for fresh air may not be a good idea in Ludhiana, where air quality has been deteriorating for the past few days. Air quality was recorded in the poor category on Friday.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) media bulletin, AQI in Ludhiana on Friday was 243, which falls under the poor category, with possible health impacts like breathing discomfort to most people on prolonged exposure.
With AQI of 243, Ludhiana stood second among major cities of the state in terms of AQI.
Mandi Gobindgarh was at first place with AQI of 273 while Patiala had the lowest AQI of 144.
Ludhiana recorded AQI of 119 on Oct 20. It rose to 207 on Oct 23. This time, air quality in the district has deteriorated after several months. AQI was recorded below 200 between Oct 24 and Oct 30. It was 208 on Oct 31.
Things worsened in Nov with AQI rising to 339 on Nov 2. This was the highest since Jan 12, 2023, when it was recorded at 348. On Nov 9, 2022, AQI rose to 408, falling under the severe category.
Sources in the Punjab Pollution Control Board attributed the problem to cracker bursting during the festival season, stubble burning and presence of pollutants in the air due to lack of rain.
They said that AQI was expected to fall after rainfall or wind.
Meanwhile, pollution has led to health issues among city residents.