Diwali Night AQI Punjab, Punjab AQI Diwali Nightm Haryana AQI, Haryana AQI Diwali Night: India celebrated the festival of lights with full enthusiasm on Thursday. Despite multiple efforts by the state government and an appeal to not burn firecrackers, people were seen involved in burning firecrackers.
On Diwali night, a toxic haze blanketed much of Haryana, driving the Air Quality Index (AQI) to “very poor” levels in several cities. According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, Gurugram’s AQI hit 322, Jind reached 336, and Charkhi Dadri recorded 306—all in the “very poor” range. Other locations like Ambala (201), Bahadurgarh (292), Bhiwani (278), Faridabad (245), and Sonipat (258) were also impacted by worsening air quality. The combination of firecrackers, local industrial emissions, and crop stubble burning has turned the air in these areas into a toxic mix, increasing health hazards for residents.
Punjab AQI
Punjab’s air quality has also taken a hit, with cities like Jalandhar registering an AQI of 256, Ludhiana 234, Mandi Gobindgarh 266, and Patiala 244—each falling into the “poor” category. Chandigarh recorded an AQI of 239 on Thursday night. The pollution surge during Diwali, intensified by stubble burning, has left the air thick with dangerous particulates, which is especially hazardous for those with pre-existing conditions. Experts warn that exposure to such pollution can have severe health effects, especially in the vulnerable population.
Health Risks of Toxic Air: Respiratory Diseases, Heart Issues, and Long-Term Health Impacts
Exposure to the high levels of particulate matter and toxins found in polluted air can lead to a range of acute and chronic health conditions. The inhalation of fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) is linked to respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung infections. The presence of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) further aggravates breathing difficulties, leading to increased hospital admissions for respiratory issues.
High pollution levels can also exacerbate cardiovascular problems, raising the risk of heart attacks, arrhythmia, and other cardiac issues due to the strain placed on the heart and blood vessels by pollutants. Research suggests that long-term exposure to high AQI can even contribute to the development of cancers, primarily lung cancer, as toxic particles settle deep into lung tissue. For children and the elderly, the effects are particularly dangerous, with increased risks of immune system impairment and decreased lung function over time.
Health experts advise people to limit outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution hours. Using air purifiers at home, wearing N95 masks, and keeping windows closed can help mitigate some health risks. Authorities also recommend that those with asthma or heart conditions closely monitor their symptoms and consult healthcare providers if they experience worsening health due to poor air quality.