Lucknow’s Air Quality Worsens to ‘Poor’ Levels Today Amid Winter Haze

Lucknow, December 17 (TNA) The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lucknow deteriorated to 167 in the ‘Poor’ category on Wednesday, marking a 5-point rise from yesterday’s 162, as stagnant winter conditions trapped pollutants across the Uttar Pradesh capital, prompting health advisories for vulnerable groups. Real-time monitors reported elevated PM2.5 and PM10 levels, with the city’s overall reading reflecting ongoing vehicular emissions, construction dust, and crop residue burning despite recent fluctuations from hazardous peaks earlier in the week.

In key localities, Gomti Nagar registered a hazardous AQI of around 378-503, with PM2.5 at 264-327µg/m³ and PM10 at 374-421µg/m³, making it one of the worst-hit upscale areas where residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure. Central hubs like Hazratganj and Indira Nagar mirrored citywide poor-to-unhealthy trends, aligning with the broader 167 AQI, while recent data from December 16 showed spikes up to 395 (hazardous) in parts of Lucknow, underscoring persistent pollution woes. Officials urged mask usage and reduced activity for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues, as levels trended upward from 162-237 over the past week.