Pune: Air Quality Set To Worsen Amid Diwali Festivities, Rising Night Temperatures
Pune: Air Quality Set To Worsen Amid Diwali Festivities, Rising Night Temperatures
Pune’s air quality, which has been at a ‘moderate’ AQI level of 122 as of October 31, is expected to deteriorate over the next 24 hours as Diwali celebrations continue. The SAFAR-IITM forecast highlights that areas like Katraj, Shivajinagar, Hadapsar, and Bhosari, which have already shown an uptick in pollution levels, are likely to see even higher AQI numbers as firecracker use and other festivities increase.
Recent data from the Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS) indicates a steady rise in pollutant levels, with areas such as Thergaon recording an AQI of 184, Katraj at 173, and Savitribai Phule Pune University Chowk at 133. As Diwali celebrations extend into November 1, the AQI in parts of the city is expected to exceed 200, pushing air quality towards ‘poor’ in heavily affected areas.
Contributors to the worsening air include traffic emissions, open garbage burning, and stagnant air as winter approaches. Open burning and local activities are exacerbating pollution levels in areas with typically lower traffic congestion, such as Katraj Dairy. A mix of Diwali celebration days is also expected to prolong air quality impacts, particularly through the night of November 1 into the morning of November 2.
Adding to the situation, Pune’s nighttime temperatures have been rising, with October 31 recording a nighttime low of 20.4°C, 4.6 degrees above normal, and a daytime high of 33°C. However, light rainfall expected on November 1 may bring some relief, potentially moderating the air quality back to a ‘moderate to satisfactory’ range, depending on the rainfall amount.
Amidst the festivities and rising temperatures, Pune’s residents are advised to stay informed about air quality levels, particularly during Diwali peak hours.
