Air Quality in Chandigarh Ahead of Diwali Expected to be Moderate

Strategic Insights -

As the air quality in Chandigarh is expected to deteriorate due to Diwali celebrations, the city's residents are bracing themselves for a potentially polluted environment. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air quality index (AQI) in Chandigarh on Sunday was 118, which is moderate. However, experts warn that the AQI may worsen on Diwali night due to the burning of crackers, and the high temperatures may lead to a quicker improvement in air quality after the celebrations are over.

Key Takeaways:

  • The air quality index (AQI) in Chandigarh was 118 on Sunday, classified as moderate.
  • Experts predict that the AQI may deteriorate on Diwali night due to the burning of crackers.
  • Temperature inversion, which prevents pollutants from getting scattered in the air, may lead to an improvement in air quality after Diwali celebrations.
  • Stubble burning cases in Punjab have been relatively lower this time, contributing to improved air quality.
  • Last Diwali, the AQI had reached a maximum of 395 at the Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Station (CAAQMS) in Sector 22.
  • The maximum temperature in Chandigarh rose to 34.4°C on Sunday, three degrees above normal.
  • The minimum temperature dropped to 17.2°C on Sunday, a degree above normal.

Statistics:

  • AQI in Chandigarh on Sunday: 118
  • Maximum temperature on Sunday: 34.4°C (three degrees above normal)
  • Minimum temperature on Sunday: 17.2°C (a degree above normal)
  • Stubble burning cases in Punjab: relatively lower this time
  • AQI on last Diwali: up to 395 at the CAAQMS in Sector 22

Sources:

  • Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) - daily bulletin
  • Hindustan Times - article "Air quality in Chandigarh ahead of Diwali expected to be moderate" (with permission)