Toxic Air Raises Concern Before Diwali, AQI Reaches 169 in Dehradun

Dehradun: As Diwali draws closer, concerns about Uttarakhand’s air quality are mounting. The Uttarakhand Pollution Control Board (UKPBC) recently assessed the state’s pollution levels, and the findings are alarming. Pollution levels have surged significantly, even before the festival begins, raising public health concerns.

According to UKPBC, nine days before Diwali, the Air Quality Index (AQI) has crossed the 160 mark in several districts. In Dehradun, the AQI hit 169 on October 22, while Udham Singh Nagar recorded an AQI of 164. These two districts have seen the highest pollution increase so far, compared to others in the state. In past years, the AQI in Uttarakhand during this period usually hovered between 110 and 120, but this year, the situation has worsened significantly.

Experts have attributed this rise in pollution to several factors. Firstly, there has been no significant post-monsoon rainfall in the state, which usually helps in reducing air pollution by settling dust particles. Secondly, ongoing construction work and vehicular emissions have contributed heavily to the deteriorating air quality. This combination of factors has caused a spike in pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM10, which are small particulate matters that can stay suspended in the air for a long time, posing serious health risks.

Health Risks on the Rise

Anup Nautiyal, founder of SDC Foundation, warned that fine particulate matter like PM2.5 and PM10 can originate from a variety of sources, including vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, road dust, and fossil fuel combustion. These pollutants are harmful as they penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, increasing the risk of respiratory infections, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and even cardiovascular diseases.

Dr. Anurag Agarwal, a pulmonologist, expressed concern about the increasing number of patients suffering from respiratory issues due to the heightened pollution levels. He noted that individuals with asthma, bronchitis, or heart conditions are at increased risk. “The current air quality can aggravate pre-existing respiratory diseases and may even trigger new cases of respiratory infections,” he said. People with chronic conditions may experience a worsening of symptoms, including shortness of breath, coughing, and chest discomfort.

UKPBC to Conduct Special Monitoring During Diwali

In light of these alarming pollution levels, the UKPBC has decided to carry out special monitoring of air and noise pollution across the state during Diwali. Dr. Parag Madhukar Dhakate, Secretary of the UKPBC, has issued a directive to regional officers to intensify air quality monitoring from October 24 to November 7. During this period, UKPBC will closely monitor pollution levels in key cities, including Dehradun, Tehri, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Kashipur, Rudrapur, Haldwani, and Nainital.

Dr. Dhakate stated that the board is fully prepared to track air and noise pollution levels throughout the festive period to ensure that they remain within permissible limits. The public is also being advised to avoid bursting firecrackers to help reduce the already high pollution levels.

Cyber Attack Affects Pollution Data Updates

Meanwhile, UKPBC’s official website recently updated air quality data after an eight-day delay. The last recorded data for Dehradun was updated on October 13, while monthly data for the entire state is available only until August. This delay in data updates is reportedly due to a cyber attack on the board’s systems, coupled with a lack of timely reporting from regional offices. The authorities are working to restore normal operations and ensure that the pollution data is updated more frequently to provide the public with real-time information.