Cuttack, Jan 7: Odisha’s historic Silver City, Cuttack is grappling with severe air pollution as the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed the 300-mark this week, placing the city in the “hazardous” category, officials said on Wednesday.

Environmental experts have reportedly warned that such levels pose serious health risks, particularly to children, the elderly, and those with respiratory ailments.

District Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde announced a seven-day restriction order to curb rising pollution levels. The measures, applicable across Cuttack Municipal Corporation and adjoining urban areas, include suspension of construction activities between 6 p.m. and 10 a.m., prohibition of roadside debris burning, and strict monitoring of coal-fired stoves in hotels and eateries.

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Authorities have also directed thrice-daily sprinkling of water on major roads, restrictions on daytime transport of coal, sand, and minor minerals, and a ban on unauthorized brick kilns and cement block factories. Heavy vehicles without proper coverings have been barred from transporting goods, while police, RTO, and municipal officials have been tasked with strict enforcement.

Experts such as environmentalist Prakash Agrawal and intellectual Abhay Pattnaik have pointed to multiple sources of pollution—burning of garbage, vehicular emissions, dust accumulation on roadsides, and coal-based cooking in eateries—as key contributors to the deteriorating air quality.

The administration has warned of stringent action against violators. Sub-collectors from Athagarh, Banki, and Sadar have been instructed to submit daily compliance reports. The restrictions will remain in force for seven days, with the possibility of extension if conditions fail to improve.

The crisis underscores the urgent need for sustainable urban planning and stricter enforcement of pollution-control norms in Odisha’s twin cities. With Cuttack’s AQI hovering at dangerous levels, the health of thousands remains at stake, making immediate intervention critical.