Air quality took a hit this Diwali despite the time restriction on bursting firecrackers, which was flouted in several parts of the city. Preliminary data revealed that pollution levels had increased noticeably by Thursday night.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) measured in five stations in the city, which was classified as good and satisfactory last week is now moderate. Pollution levels were highest at Hebbal and Jayanagar. The AQI of Jayanagar was 147 when compared to last Thursday’s reading of 93. Hebbal, too, had a high AQI of 147. The AQI at NIMHANS and Silk Board stood at 134, compared with 47 and 50 last Thursday.
The index measures air quality taking into account particulate matter – PM 2.5, or very fine particles smaller than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, and PM 10 which are less than 10 micrometers in diameter – as well as other pollutants, including nitrogen dioxide, ozone and carbon monoxide.
All the readings showed a significant increase compared to the previous week. The air quality index on Mysuru Road was 145 on Thursday while last week it was 79.
Officials of the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board stated that they can provide comparison of the air pollution levels with the previous year only after the festivities end.
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