Lucknow Fog Halts T20; AQI Data Dispute Erupts

A cricket match in Lucknow was abandoned on Wednesday due to dense fog, leading to a heated dispute over conflicting air quality data. Official readings from the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board indicated an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 174, classified as moderate. However, various private applications reported significantly higher AQI values, some surpassing 400, causing public concern and accusations of poor scheduling by the BCCI.

Authorities have cautioned citizens against trusting data from private apps, citing potential inaccuracies due to uncalibrated sensors or the use of foreign benchmarks like US-EPA standards. Experts emphasize that government monitoring stations adhere to strict protocols and use scientifically validated 24-hour averages, unlike some private platforms that may rely on momentary spikes or unverified models. The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board stated they were unaware of any independent private monitoring stations.

This controversy highlights the critical need for reliable air quality information. The government asserts that its data, collected from certified and calibrated stations, provides a realistic city-wide assessment. They urge the public to rely solely on official sources like the Central Pollution Control Board's Sameer App, assuring that Lucknow's air quality is currently in a moderate category with no cause for panic.