In the wake of rainfall providing a brief respite from air pollution in Pune, concerns loom over the city’s air quality as Diwali approaches. The Air Quality Index (AQI), which measured a satisfactory level at 73 on Saturday, is predicted to escalate to 97 within the next 24 hours, primarily due to firecracker emissions during the festival.
Last year, Pune experienced satisfactory air quality during Diwali, but this year’s forecast hints at a potential decline into the “poor” category. The impact of weather conditions, including rain and wind, played a crucial role in reducing pollution levels post-rainfall. However, the burst of firecrackers poses a new challenge, with pollution levels ranging from 25 to 438 in previous Novembers.
According to SAFAR-IITM observations, PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations were recorded at various locations in Pune, indicating the presence of particulate matter in the air. Environmental authorities, including Mangesh Dighe of Pune Municipal Corporation, warn that the large-scale burning of firecrackers releases harmful chemicals into the atmosphere, adversely affecting air quality for at least two days.
Meteorological factors, such as wind speed and humidity, have been pivotal in maintaining or deteriorating Pune’s air quality. Intense moderate rains and a wind speed of 30-40 kilometers per hour on Friday helped disperse pollutants, but the looming Diwali celebrations present new challenges.
Anupam Kashya from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Pune, highlighted the south-easterly wind coming from the Bay of Bengal, with reduced relative humidity. While some areas may experience isolated thunder and light rain, concerns persist about the impact of firecracker emissions on air quality.
As citizens gear up for Diwali festivities, environmental authorities stress the importance of responsible celebrations to mitigate the adverse effects on air quality. The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board’s historical data emphasizes the need for vigilance, showing fluctuations in respirable suspended particulate matter levels in previous Novembers.
Sources By Agencies
