Did Chennai Experience Increased Air Pollution After Diwali Fireworks?
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Synopsis
Chennai's air quality has taken a hit after the Diwali festivities, with pollution levels soaring due to firecracker use. Despite this, the city's authorities are working diligently to manage the aftermath. Discover how the celebrations impacted air quality and the efforts to clean up the city.
Key Takeaways
- Air Quality Index rose sharply post-Diwali.
- Perungudi recorded the highest AQI at 217.
- Pollution levels are lower than previous years.
- Cleanup operations removed 60 metric tonnes of waste.
- Emergency calls surged by 61 percent during celebrations.
Chennai, Oct 21 (NationPress) The city experienced a significant increase in air pollution levels after the festive Diwali celebrations, marked by the continuous sounds of firecrackers throughout the capital. According to the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board (TNPCB), the average Air Quality Index (AQI) in Chennai surged to 154 by Tuesday morning, a stark rise from 80 the previous evening. The Perungudi area recorded the highest AQI at 217, while Manali and Velachery each had an AQI of 151, followed by Arumbakkam at 145 and Alandur at 128.
Officials noted that despite this spike, pollution levels this year were notably lower than during the 2024 Diwali celebrations, when the highest AQI reached 287 in Valasaravakkam, with the lowest at 150 in Thiruvottiyur.
The reduction in pollution was attributed to intermittent rain showers in Chennai during the festival, which effectively minimized suspended particulate matter in the atmosphere.
As the city dealt with temporary haze and smog, the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) initiated cleanup operations post-festival. By 6 p.m. on Monday, approximately 60 metric tonnes of firecracker waste were removed from various locations in the city, with the Alandur zone accounting for the highest amount at 6.89 metric tonnes, followed by Perungudi with 6.03 metric tonnes.
In total, over 6,000 sanitation workers were mobilized overnight to clear firecracker debris and segregate waste. The collected materials were transported to waste management facilities in Gummidipoondi, Kodungaiyur, and Perungudi.
Authorities have urged residents to assist by separately handing over firecracker waste to sanitation personnel for proper disposal.
On another note, the state's 108 emergency ambulance service reported a 61 percent increase in calls compared to regular days, receiving a total of 4,635 calls statewide until 6 p.m. on Monday, including 135 cases of burn injuries from firecracker-related incidents.
Throughout Tamil Nadu, Diwali was celebrated with great enthusiasm, as people donned new attire, exchanged sweets, and illuminated their homes.
Despite occasional rain, the festive atmosphere remained vibrant, with celebrations extending late into the night, marking a lively yet smoky conclusion to one of the state's most cherished festivals.
Point of View
It's essential to highlight the dual nature of Diwali celebrations. While the festival fosters joy and unity, the environmental repercussions, particularly air pollution, cannot be ignored. Our responsibility lies in ensuring a balance between tradition and sustainability.
NationPress
21/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the spike in air pollution in Chennai?
The spike in air pollution was primarily due to the extensive use of firecrackers during Diwali celebrations.
How did the air quality compare to previous years?
This year's air quality was significantly better than in 2024, when the AQI reached 287.
What actions are being taken to manage the pollution?
The Greater Chennai Corporation has deployed over 6,000 sanitation workers for cleanup operations and waste management.
What was the increase in emergency calls during the Diwali celebrations?
There was a 61 percent increase in calls to the 108 emergency ambulance service, including numerous burn injury cases.
How did the weather affect pollution levels?
Intermittent rain during the festival helped reduce the suspended particulate matter in the air.
