Patna: Diwali celebrations across Bihar brought not only lights and fireworks but also dangerously high levels of air pollution, with Hajipur recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 303. The intense firework displays led to an alarming spike in pollution in cities including Patna, Purnia, and Araria, where AQI levels surged to hazardous levels despite a government-imposed ban on firecrackers.
In Hajipur, air quality worsened to the “very bad” category, while the AQI in Purnia almost doubled from 150 to 280 on Diwali night and registered 253 the following morning. Other cities such as Gaya and Muzaffarpur also experienced high pollution levels, as fireworks continued despite the restrictions, highlighting limited compliance with the ban on firecrackers. Only green crackers were permitted in select districts, yet the impact was minimal.
According to the Meteorological Center, Bihar is currently experiencing dry weather, with a northwest wind bringing some cooling. Over the next few days, the temperature is expected to remain steady, with highs between 31 to 33 degrees Celsius and lows around 22 to 25 degrees Celsius. In the past 24 hours, Madhubani and Buxar emerged as the warmest districts, recording maximum temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius.
Air Quality Index (AQI) is a standardized measure to assess the pollution level in the air, with ranges indicating categories from “good” to “severe.” When AQI readings exceed 300, the air quality is classified as “very bad,” posing significant health risks. With PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen oxide, and sulfur dioxide particles reaching high levels, experts warn of respiratory risks associated with prolonged exposure.
Meteorologist SK Patel added that the northwest wind, known to influence temperature changes, will continue in the region. While the weather will remain mostly stable, no immediate improvement in air quality is expected as the wind is unlikely to disperse the pollution effectively in the coming days.
