Punjab may experience temporary relief from rising pollution levels over the next 48 hours as a western disturbance brings changes in wind patterns and weather conditions. However, the improvement is unlikely to last long, as November is expected to remain largely dry and warmer than normal, according to weather experts.
The state continues to face deteriorating air quality following Diwali celebrations and an increase in stubble-burning incidents. The combination of post-festival pollution, farm fires and unfavourable weather conditions has added to the pollution burden across several cities.
Ludhiana Records Punjab's Highest AQI on November 13
Ludhiana emerged as the most polluted city among the listed Punjab locations on November 13, recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 290, placing it in the poor category.
Amritsar followed with an AQI of 220, also in the poor category. Mandi Gobindgarh recorded 171, while Patiala registered 169, both falling in the moderate category.
In contrast, Chandigarh recorded an AQI of 90, placing it in the satisfactory category and making its air quality considerably better than that of the neighbouring Punjab cities mentioned above.
Western Disturbance May Bring Temporary Improvement
Surinder Paul, Director of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Chandigarh, said the approaching western disturbance was likely to bring changes in weather conditions, although its major impact would be felt in northeastern regions.
The system is expected to influence wind patterns and bring scattered cloud formation, potentially helping disperse pollutants and improve air quality temporarily. However, Paul clarified that Chandigarh was not expected to receive rainfall.
After a brief dip, maximum temperatures across Punjab are likely to remain 1–2 degrees Celsius above normal for the remainder of November. The normal maximum temperature during this period is around 30 degrees Celsius, but the warmer conditions have continued this year.
Paul also pointed towards changing seasonal patterns, noting that August witnessed increased monsoon rainfall and colder winter conditions have extended into March in recent years.
5,517 Stubble-Burning Incidents Add to Pollution Burden
Punjab has recorded 5,517 stubble-burning incidents so far, according to the report. Farm fires, post-Diwali emissions and unfavourable atmospheric conditions have contributed to the state's air-quality concerns. However, pollution levels cannot be attributed to any single source alone.
Poor Air Quality Raises Health Concerns
Health experts warn that prolonged exposure to polluted air can aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, particularly asthma and existing lung or heart diseases. Children, senior citizens and people with pre-existing respiratory problems are especially vulnerable.
Polluted air can also trigger irritation in the eyes, nose and skin, making it important for vulnerable groups to limit prolonged outdoor exposure when pollution levels remain high.
For now, the western disturbance may offer Punjab a short breathing window, but the forecast of largely dry and warmer-than-normal conditions suggests that the pollution challenge is far from over.