India Meteorological Department (IMD) anticipates a forthcoming decline in the minimal temperatures across several regions in the state, including the capital, Patna, during the subsequent four days. It is anticipated that these temperatures will oscillate around 16 to 18 degrees Celsius. This projection coincides with the backdrop of the ongoing degradation in air quality observed across Bihar.
Kumar Gaurav, a distinguished official affiliated with the Patna Meteorological Centre, expounds on this meteorological development. In his statement, he elucidates that the imminent four days are poised to witness a reduction in minimum temperatures by approximately 2 to 3 degrees Celsius within the north-western and south-western precincts of the state.
In the past 24 hours, the meteorological landscape across Bihar was characterized by persistently arid conditions. The noteworthy recorded figures include an average maximum temperature of 31.4°C, while the minimum temperature was recorded at 19°C. Notably, Madhubani experienced a zenith temperature of 33.4°C, in contrast to Gaya, where the minimum temperature touched 16.5°C.
Additionally, Kumar Gaurav underscores that westerly and north-westerly winds currently hold sway, extending their influence up to an altitude of 5.8 kilometers above sea level. These prevailing atmospheric conditions set the stage for subsequent developments.
In the immediate 24-hour forecast, a weather pattern marked by dryness prevails, while a perceptible presence of mist in the morning hours is projected across most regions. The areas proximate to the Himalayan foothills and the western sectors are expected to encounter episodes of light fog.
Simultaneously, there is disconcerting news regarding the air quality in the capital, as it continues to deteriorate. An examination of the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) on Sunday reveals a substantial increase from 176, recorded just a few days prior. The current AQI of 238, according to the standards of the Central Pollution Control Board, categorizes the air quality as ‘Poor’ and is known to induce respiratory discomfort for individuals subjected to prolonged exposure.
Across the cityscape, an array of six monitoring stations collectively disseminate the vital AQI data. Most notably, the Muradpur monitoring station marked the highest AQI on Friday, tallying at 312. Subsequently, Samanpura reported an AQI of 290, followed by Rajbansi Nagar at 287, Danapur at 271, Shikarpur at 179, and Adalatganj at 98.
Expanding the scope beyond the capital, several other cities across Bihar reported significantly elevated AQI levels. These areas include Begusarai at 360, Purnia at 305, Motihari at 298, Rajgir at 280, Muzaffarpur at 260, and Saharsa at 260. The collective degradation of air quality in various regions necessitates swift and effective measures to counter this burgeoning environmental concern.
