Mumbai’s Air Quality Plummeted After Diwali Celebrations, Exceeding WHO Guidelines
Mumbai, the bustling metropolis and commercial capital of India, witnessed a sharp decline in air quality following the extravagant Diwali celebrations. Despite the Bombay High Court’s orders and pleas from the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the city recorded a poor air quality index (AQI) of 118 on Monday, the day after Diwali. This alarming figure, according to official data, exceeded the recommended limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO) by 2.9 times.
The high court and BMC had implemented a mandate last week, restricting the bursting of firecrackers to a two-hour window, specifically from 8-10 p.m. during the Diwali festival. However, this regulation was largely ignored in many parts of the city on Sunday and early Monday. Diwali revelers started lighting up all types of firecrackers from dusk and continued well into the early hours of Monday morning.
Notably impacted by the poor air quality were several areas in Mumbai, including Deonar, Bandra East, Nerul, Powai, Bandra Kurla Complex, Sion, Borivali East, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Juhu, Vile Parle West, Mahape, Worli’s Siddharth Nagar, Bhandup West, Bandra West, and Malad, all of which reported poor AQI levels ranging from 105 to 157.
Since the advent of November, Mumbai has witnessed one day of moderate AQI, nine days of poor AQI, and two days of unhealthy AQI levels, despite numerous measures implemented by the civic administration and state government to combat the post-monsoon air pollution crisis.
In an effort to provide some respite, the Bombay High Court has actively intervened to address the concerning air quality. However, the reality on the ground reveals a challenging scenario as pollution levels persist, casting a shadow on the effectiveness of these measures.
As Mumbai grapples with the ramifications of this air pollution crisis, it becomes evident that further action is required to protect the health and well-being of its residents. The battle against air pollution is an ongoing one, requiring a united front and a commitment to sustainable practices. Environmental consciousness and strict adherence to regulations are essential to combat this pressing issue.
In these trying times, it becomes imperative for individuals, communities, and authorities to join forces in safeguarding the air we breathe. Mitigating air pollution is not just a responsibility, but a collective obligation towards creating a cleaner and healthier Mumbai for future generations.
