Everyone in Punjab celebrated Diwali with utmost joy. Although only a 2-hour window was provided by the government for burning crackers whereas in some cities a ban was put to control the deteriorating air quality of the cities but in vain. Despite numerous steps taken by the government, cities of Punjab witnessed the worst pollution and air quality on Monday.
Bursting of fire crackers on Diwali pushed the air quality index of major cities beyond 500 at night. Due to this it almost became impossible for the people to breathe. Not only at night, but the after effect of the pollution due to crackers was even seen in the morning as there is still uneasiness while breathing in the outside environment.
Reportedly, there are certain ranges in air quality index and if a percentage is crossed it become hazardous as well as unhealthy for the people to inhale that air. If the air quality index crosses 150 mark then it is said to be dangerous as it can cause breathing problems to people and can have a bad impact on overall health as well. According to the reports, all the major cities in Punjab crossed the 150 mark of the air quality index after which the doctors have said that mask has again become necessary for the people going out and getting exposed to this environment.
Punjab already faced the problem of pollution due to huge amount of stubble burning and bursting of firecrackers just worsen the problem being suffered by the state. The environment experts have stated that it will now take up to several days for the air quality to come back to normal. The doctors have said that at present, the pollution level in Punjab is at its peak and with coming days it might get worse. It has been advised to everyone that mask should be surely worn if anyone is planning to go outside.
Here is the list of cities and their current air quality index.
Jalandhar: The current AQI of Jalandhar is 186 which is poor. In the night at around 8 pm, the AQI reported of the city was 287.
Amritsar: The recorded AQI is 316 which falls in the severe category. The city recorded 307 AQI at 8 pm as the people did not follow any 2-hour window rule.
Ludhiana: The city recorded AQI of 177. It witnessed the AQI crossing the 300 marks as well as at night the reported index was 338.
Patiala: The city witnessed AQI of 168 which is again not very good. People of Patiala experienced a lot of pollution as at night the AQI was 247.