Toxic air in Punjab and Haryana after Diwali, Mandi Gobindgarh AQI hits 445

Air quality has deteriorated significantly in Punjab, Haryana and Delhi following Diwali celebrations. Due to firecrackers being burst beyond the time permitted by the administration and stubble smoke, pollution levels have reached the dangerous category in several cities of the region.

According to Central Pollution Control Board data, Punjab's Mandi Gobindgarh was the worst affected, where the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 445 on November 8 and stood at 399 on November 9. Additionally, Ludhiana recorded an AQI of 313, Jalandhar 298, Amritsar 234, and Patiala 210.

Meanwhile, incidents of stubble burning in fields have also increased in Punjab. On November 8, 1,152 new stubble burning cases surfaced in the state, taking the total count of such incidents during the current season to 4,459. Farm smoke, vehicular emissions, and low wind speed have made the pollution more severe.

The situation remains alarming in Haryana as well. On Diwali night, out of 23 monitored cities, 15 cities recorded an AQI in the 'severe' category between 401 and 500. On Monday morning, Bahadurgarh recorded an AQI of 401, Charkhi Dadri 388, Rohtak 385, Bhiwani 369, and Gurugram 332.

Health experts state that rising PM 2.5 particles in the air can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing coughing, breathing difficulties, and eye irritation. This pollution is particularly dangerous for children, the elderly, and those suffering from heart and respiratory diseases.

In view of the rising pollution, people have been advised to avoid going outdoors, skip morning walks, and wear N95 masks when stepping out for essential work.

Key developments

• Mandi Gobindgarh AQI recorded at 445, air quality worsens in other Punjab cities too
• 1,152 new stubble burning cases surfaced in Punjab on November 8
• Pollution reaches severe category in 15 Haryana cities during night time
• Experts advise people to avoid morning walks and wear masks