Following Diwali festivities, Mumbai shrouded in a layer of haze; air quality sinks to 'poor’

File Photo/Satej Shinde

Following the Diwali festivities, Mumbai finds itself shrouded in a layer of haze, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) plummeting into the 'poor' category.

The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR-India) reported an overall AQI of 234, indicating 'poor' air quality for the city. Specific areas within Mumbai witnessed varying levels, with Borivali at 307, Kalanagar at 312, Chembur at 334, and Worli at 134, according to SAFAR-India.

This decline comes in the aftermath of widespread fireworks during Diwali night, as evident from visuals of several places in the city, where revelers enthusiastically lit up crackers.

Just earlier this week, Mumbai's overall AQI stood at 149, categorizing it as 'moderate.'

The Air Quality Index (AQI) serves as a communication tool, simplifying complex air quality data into a single index value, providing clarity through nomenclature and color. Ranging from 0 to 100, the AQI is considered good, moderate from 100 to 200, poor from 200 to 300, very poor from 300 to 400, and severe for values above 400.

In response to escalating air quality concerns, the Mumbai High Court allowed firecracker bursting for a restricted two-hour window, between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. in the country's commercial capital. In contrast, the Supreme Court, in its November 7 order, imposed a blanket ban on fireworks across all states.

Earlier, the Bombay HC issued interim directives to the Maharashtra government and municipal authorities in Mumbai and neighboring areas, urging immediate actions to address the worsening air pollution.

Also read: Mumbai: Bombay High Court amends Diwali firecracker order; time restricted to 2 hours only

Simultaneously, the national capital faces a similar challenge with heightened pollution levels post-Diwali celebrations. Visuals from various parts of Delhi depict thick haze obstructing roads, drastically reducing visibility and posing challenges for commuters.

It's crucial to note that Delhi has been grappling with pollution for the past few weeks, with the AQI reaching 'severe' levels at many places. With the additional impact of Diwali festivities, it is anticipated that pollution levels will surge once again, further compromising air quality and making breathing difficult for residents within the city. (With inputs from agencies)