JIND, Oct. 30 -- THE state Health Department has now been put on alert, as there is a steep rise in the air quality index from the day of Diwali.

In this connection, the Director-General of Health Services of the state has issued strict instructions to all civil surgeons to keep all medicines and facilities ready to deal with such diseases as caused by poisonous air.

Air quality index has been continuously increasing in the state for the last several days. Smog is believed to be the major reason for this.

There is the possibility of spreading airborne diseases due to smog in the state.

In view of such an apprehension, the Director-General of Health Services has issued letters to all civil surgeons. In the letter, the Director-General of...