Air Quality Deteriorates After Diwali Celebrations

As Diwali festivities wind down, air quality in many Indian cities has worsened, raising concerns about health and safety. Here’s an overview of the current situation, particularly highlighting the most polluted areas as of November 1.

Top 10 Most Polluted Cities

Surprisingly, Delhi is not at the top of the list. Karnal in Haryana leads with a hazardous Air Quality Index (AQI) of 471. Following Karnal is Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh, with an AQI of 421. Other cities in Uttar Pradesh, such as Rampur (AQI 412), Sambhal (AQI 411), and Pilibhit (AQI 410), also recorded extremely poor air quality. Here’s the full list of the top ten polluted cities:

1. Karnal - AQI 471
2. Moradabad - AQI 421
3. Rampur - AQI 412
4. Sambhal - AQI 411
5. Pilibhit - AQI 410
6. Budaun - AQI 410
7. Bareilly - AQI 410
8. Shahjahanpur - AQI 410
9. Ambala - AQI 405
10. New Delhi - AQI 396

Widespread Pollution Issues

The pollution crisis extends beyond these cities. Major urban centers like Chennai and Mumbai also grapple with smog and unhealthy air quality. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) indicates that pollution levels have spiked significantly after Diwali, leading to health risks for residents across the country.

In Haridwar, Uttarakhand, a thick haze settled over the city the morning after Diwali. The smoke from firecrackers significantly reduced visibility, making it difficult for people to go outside. Resident Harendra Singh expressed his concerns, stating that firecrackers should be banned nationwide due to their harmful effects on health and air quality. He highlighted the need for public education about the dangers of firecrackers, noting their negative impact on individuals and the environment.

Also read: Gas cylinder exploded in the house on Diwali, husband and wife died

SUMMARY

Air quality has significantly deteriorated across many Indian cities following Diwali celebrations, with Karnal in Haryana recording the worst levels at an AQI of 471, classified as hazardous. Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh follows closely with an AQI of 421. Other cities in Uttar Pradesh, such as Rampur and Sambhal, also report dangerous pollution levels. Delhi ranks 10th with an AQI of 396. Major cities like Chennai and Mumbai are also affected by poor air quality, raising health concerns. In Haridwar, residents experienced thick haze and reduced visibility, leading to complaints about respiratory issues. Local voices are calling for a nationwide ban on firecrackers to mitigate pollution and educate the public on its harmful effects.