Patna: After Diwali 2024, the air quality has deteriorated in many districts of Bihar, due to which the pollution level has increased. Hajipur is the most affected, where the AQI was recorded at 304, which falls in the ‘very poor’ category. 19 districts including Patna have been warned about the dangers of pollution.
Air quality bad in 19 districts
Actually, the festival of Diwali was celebrated with great pomp in Bihar. People celebrated by burning firecrackers. But the impact of this festival is clearly visible on the environment of Bihar. As the morning dawned, the air quality deteriorated significantly in many districts. According to Bihar Pollution Control Board data, the air quality in 19 districts of the state has gone from ‘poor’ to ‘very poor’ category. 9 districts are in poor category and 9 districts are in very poor category and Hajipur district is in very poor category.
Alert from red to orange
Hajipur recorded AQI 304, which is ‘red alert’ status. According to Sameer App of the Pollution Control Board, this level is dangerous and can increase the risk of serious diseases. The air quality in 9 districts with orange alert is in very poor category.
274 AQI was recorded in Araria, 265 AQI in Purnia, 247 AQI in Muzaffarpur, 237 AQI in Begusarai, 236 AQI in Samastipur, 222 AQI in Bhagalpur, 220 AQI in Bettiah, 217 AQI in Siwan and 204 AQI in Patna. In areas with AQI between 200 and 300, respiratory and asthma patients are advised to take special precautions.
In 9 districts, AQI was recorded between 100 and 200, which falls in the yellow alert category. This level can also give rise to many diseases. Munger recorded 195 AQI, Bihar Sharif (Nalanda) 191 AQI, Chapra 178 AQI, Katihar 171 AQI, Saharsa 168 AQI, Buxar 170 AQI, Gaya 144 AQI, Motihari 136 AQI and Gopalganj 112 AQI. Went.
Permission was granted to burn green crackers
Last year also, during Diwali, the pollution level had increased significantly in Patna, Hajipur, Muzaffarpur and Gaya. As a result, the Supreme Court had banned firecrackers in these districts. This year too, firecrackers were banned in these districts and only green crackers were allowed to be burnt in other districts. However, looking at the data, it seems that the ban on firecrackers was not strictly followed, due to which the air quality has deteriorated.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Air Quality Expert
Editor: Good morning, and thank you for joining us today. Our discussion revolves around the significant air quality deterioration observed in Bihar following the Diwali celebrations. The Bihar Pollution Control Board recorded an alarming AQI of 304 in Hajipur, categorizing it as ‘very poor.’ Can you start by explaining what this AQI level means for the residents there?
Expert: Good morning! Absolutely. An AQI of 304 indicates a very poor level of air quality, which means there is a high concentration of pollutants in the air. At this level, everyone may start to experience health effects, especially individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, children, and the elderly. It’s crucial for residents to limit outdoor activities and take necessary precautions such as wearing masks when they go outside.
Editor: It’s concerning indeed. The increase in pollution levels aligns with the festive season when firecrackers are commonly used. Could you elaborate on how the celebration of Diwali, specifically through the use of firecrackers, impacts air quality?
Expert: Certainly. Firecrackers release a myriad of harmful pollutants including particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides into the atmosphere. These pollutants not only contribute to immediate spikes in AQI but can also have long-lasting effects on air quality. The particulate matter can remain suspended in the air for extended periods, exacerbating respiratory issues and other health problems for the local population.
Editor: That’s very insightful. Now, we see that 19 districts in Bihar have been warned about these pollution dangers, transitioning their air quality from ‘poor’ to ‘very poor.’ What measures should the local authorities consider implementing to combat this situation?
Expert: Local authorities must prioritize raising awareness about the health risks associated with poor air quality and consider temporary bans on firecrackers during festivals to mitigate this pollution spike. Additionally, they should invest in better urban planning, including increasing green spaces, which can help absorb some of the air pollutants. Implementing stricter regulations on industrial emissions and vehicular pollution is also crucial.
Editor: It sounds like a multi-faceted approach is necessary. We also know that public participation is vital in these scenarios. How can the residents of Bihar contribute to improving their air quality?
Expert: Absolutely, community involvement is key. Residents can take proactive steps by reducing the use of firecrackers not only during festivals but throughout the year. They can also advocate for better public transport options, participate in tree plantation drives, and most importantly, monitor the air quality regularly using mobile apps or local reports to stay informed. Educating others about the effects of pollution can amplify their collective efforts.
Editor: Those are practical steps that individuals can take. Moving forward, what long-term strategies would you recommend to prevent a recurrence of this air quality crisis after future festivals?
Expert: Long-term strategies should include sustained public education campaigns about the environmental impact of celebrations, as well as enforced legislation regarding pollution control. The government can also explore the use of green alternatives to firecrackers, which provide the festive experience without the harmful emissions. Additionally, integrating air quality monitoring into urban policy planning can help mitigate similar crises in the future.
Editor: Thank you for sharing your expertise and insights on this pressing issue. The plight of Bihar’s air quality post-Diwali should serve as a wake-up call for all of us to take pollution seriously, not just during festivals but year-round.
Expert: Thank you for having me. Awareness and proactive measures can indeed foster a healthier environment for all.
Editor: We appreciate your time. Let’s hope for swift action and improvement in the air quality of Bihar and beyond!