Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Launches Outdoor Air Purifier Drive Amid Severe AQI Levels

Bhubaneswar is taking a bold step to combat rising air pollution. In response to alarming spikes in the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI), the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced the installation of large-scale outdoor air purifiers at key public locations.

The first phase will target high-density and traffic-congested areas such as Jaydev Vihar and AG Square, where vehicular emissions and winter inversion have worsened pollution levels.

Mayor Sulochana Das confirmed that discussions with the State Pollution Control Board are underway to finalise implementation details.

Alongside the purifier rollout, BMC has intensified dust suppression measures, including water sprinkling during road sweeping, to reduce particulate matter from construction and road activities.

On New Year’s Day, Bhubaneswar recorded an AQI of 305, entering the “Severe” category. Subsequent readings in early January have hovered between 248 and 294, underscoring the urgency of intervention.

Experts warn that while outdoor purifiers can provide localised relief, long-term solutions must include stricter emission controls, expansion of green cover, and reduced reliance on fossil fuel vehicles.

Mayor Das stressed that citizen cooperation is vital.

With many households owning four to five cars, she urged residents to limit unnecessary vehicle use, adopt public transport, carpooling, or cycling. “Without public cooperation, these efforts will not yield lasting results,” she said.

The initiative aligns with Bhubaneswar’s Smart City aspirations, aiming to balance urban growth with sustainable living.

Residents are advised to stay indoors during peak pollution hours, use indoor purifiers, and wear N95 masks when outdoors.