Patna Air Quality & Winter Crisis: Severe AQI and Dense Fog Alert
Patna is currently witnessing a double-edged environmental crisis as January 3, 2026, brings a combination of toxic air and a paralyzing cold wave. Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution as visibility and air purity have reached hazardous levels.
1. Air Quality Status: “Severe”
- AQI Reading: The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Patna has surged to 399, firmly placing it in the ‘Severe’ category.
- Dominant Pollutant: PM2.5 levels are recorded at 248 µg/m³, which is more than 16 times the WHO recommended safety limit.
- Health Warning: Health officials have issued a high-priority alert. Breathing this air is currently estimated to be as harmful as smoking 8 to 9 cigarettes a day. Sensitive groups (children, elderly, and those with respiratory issues) must stay indoors.
2. Winter & Fog Emergency
- Orange Alert: The IMD has issued an Orange Alert for the entire district. Biting northwesterly winds have intensified the chill, with minimum temperatures hovering around 9°C.
- Zero Visibility: Thick “radiation fog” has blanketed the city, with visibility dropping below 10 meters in several areas during early morning hours.
- Travel Disruptions: * Flights: At least 4 major flights (including routes from Delhi, Kolkata, and Hyderabad) were cancelled today at Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport.
- Trains: Over 28 long-distance trains, including the Tejas Rajdhani and Sampoorna Kranti, are running behind schedule, with some delays exceeding 26 hours.
3. Government & School Updates
- School Closures: Due to the combined threat of the cold wave and pollution, the district administration has ordered the closure of classes up to Grade 5, while higher grades are operating on significantly revised, later schedules.
- Lifting of Curbs: Interestingly, some construction bans were temporarily eased on Friday following a brief wind-driven respite, but the High Court is closely monitoring the situation as levels have spiked again.
Safety Recommendations
- Wear N95 Masks: Cloth masks are ineffective against the current PM2.5 levels.
- Limit Exertion: Avoid morning walks or outdoor exercise until the fog lifts and AQI improves.
- Travel Check: Always verify flight and train status via official apps before leaving for the station or airport.