45% spike in Diwali PM2.5 levels compared to last year

The concentration of fine particulate matters PM2.5 and PM10, known for causing respiratory issues, surged during Diwali, rising by 45 percent and 33 percent, respectively, compared to the previous year.

- 

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) conducted an analysis revealing these alarming figures. An Air Quality Index (AQI) above 400, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) standards, is considered severe, posing severe health risks, especially to those with respiratory ailments. Almost all air quality monitoring stations in Delhi recorded heightened pollution levels on Diwali day compared to the previous year.

The DPCC reported a 24hour average PM10 concentration of 430 micrograms per cubic meter on Diwali, a notable increase from 322 micrograms per cubic meter last year. Similarly, the 24-hour average PM2.5 concentration stood at 314 micrograms per cubic meter, up from 217 micrograms per cubic meter in the previous year. The overall air quality index on Diwali reached 276, categorizing it as “poor.”