Pune’s air quality, which has been classified as ‘moderate’ with an air quality index (AQI) of 122 as of October 31, is anticipated to decline in the next 24 hours, coinciding with the remaining days of the ongoing Diwali festival. The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology’s (IITM) SAFAR model indicates that pollution levels are set to rise in several localities, including Katraj, Shivajinagar, Hadapsar, and Bhosari, where there has been a gradual increase in air pollution recently.
Historically, Diwali celebrations have contributed to air quality degradation due to factors such as stagnant air, open burning of waste, and the extensive use of firecrackers. This year is no different, as the air quality has fallen from ‘satisfactory’ to ‘moderate,’ and predictions suggest further declines with the festival peaking on Friday, November 1.
According to the Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS), Pune is likely to witness a significant drop in air quality, with some areas possibly exceeding an AQI of 200 within the next day. On Thursday, the highest AQI was recorded at 184 in Thergaon, followed by 173 in Katraj, and 133 at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) Chowk. Areas like Hadapsar, Shivajinagar, Pashan, and Katraj are expected to experience particularly poor air quality, exceeding 200.
Sachin Ghude, head of the metropolitan air quality and weather forecasting services at IITM Pune, noted, “Although we have yet to investigate areas exhibiting high pollution levels outside major traffic junctions, open burning is observed in many places, contributing to increased pollution.”
Ghude highlighted that this year’s Diwali celebrations are somewhat divided, with some people celebrating on October 31 and others on November 1, which is likely to cause air quality issues on both days. He warned that particularly poor air quality is expected from the night of November 1 into the morning of November 2.
There is a possibility of light rainfall in Pune on November 1, which could provide some relief to the air quality. Depending on the intensity of the rainfall, Pune’s air quality may range from ‘moderate to satisfactory.’
In addition to the air quality concerns, Pune is experiencing warmer nights, with temperatures rising steadily over the past few days. The nighttime temperature recorded on October 26 was 16.7 degrees Celsius, marking the month’s lowest, but it increased to 20.4 degrees Celsius by October 31—4.6 degrees above normal. Daytime temperatures also saw a rise, reaching 33 degrees Celsius on October 31, 1.7 degrees above the usual levels.
As Puneans enjoy the festivities of Diwali, it is crucial to stay informed about the air quality and take necessary precautions to safeguard health amidst the celebrations.
Sources By Agencies
