Chennai, the day after Deepavali, is blanketed in a haze of pollution, as the aftermath of the night’s firecracker celebrations leaves air quality levels dangerously compromised. The festive explosions, which lit up the sky and echoed through neighborhoods, have had a noticeable impact on the city’s air quality, with Perungudi and Velachery recording some of the highest Air Quality Index (AQI) levels at 235 and 205 respectively, according to real-time data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Elevated AQI Raises Health Worries
The increase in air pollution has sparked concerns among health experts and the public alike. Dr. R. Srinivasan, a pulmonologist, noted, “We see a rise in respiratory issues each Deepavali, with patients complaining of breathing difficulties, asthma flare-ups, and eye irritation. It’s a pattern, and it speaks to the need for stricter pollution controls during such celebrations.”
Chennai’s AQI readings from other monitoring stations, including Alandur and Arumbakkam, also showed moderate levels, averaging an AQI of 156 citywide. CPCB classifies an AQI between 201 and 300 as ‘poor,’ which can cause breathing discomfort to people on prolonged exposure, while AQI readings between 100 and 200 are ‘moderate,’ posing risks to individuals with respiratory issues.
Many residents, including those in affected areas, voiced concerns over the impact of firecrackers on the environment. “The joy of bursting crackers is short-lived, but the air quality impact lasts much longer,” said Ramya Balakrishnan, a resident of Velachery. “I love Deepavali, but it’s disheartening to see how the morning after is clouded by haze and poor air.”
Social media was abuzz with similar sentiments, as residents shared images of hazy skies and their frustrations. Prashant Menon from Perungudi posted, “It’s almost suffocating to step outside in the morning. We need to think more about sustainable ways to celebrate.”
Environmentalists