Mumbai AQI rises from 131 to 278 on Diwali

On Diwali, Mumbai's Air Quality Index (AQI) surged from 131 to 278, transitioning from the 'moderate' to the 'poor' category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Air Quality Index website. The AQI was measured in various areas across the city, with Bhandup West and Borivali recording the highest readings of 276 and 269, respectively. This spike marked a considerable increase from previous years, with readings of 194 in 2022, 181 in 2024, and 149 in 2023.

Professor Gufran Baig of the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS) attributed the sudden rise to the changing wind direction, which accelerated over a 48-hour period. As the wind changed direction, pollutants from firecrackers remained suspended in the air, exacerbating the situation. Despite a court injunction prohibiting the bursting of firecrackers in public spaces, revelers set off fireworks throughout Mumbai and its suburbs well into the evening, contributing to the alarming AQI levels.

By 10 p.m., several neighborhoods, including Bhandup West at 276, Borivali at 269, Govandi at 265, Chembur at 258, Chandivali at 257, and Bandra East, BKC, and Bandra West at 242, reported AQI readings above 200, signifying 'unhealthy' conditions for the general population. Moreover, locations such as Bhakti Park (Wadala), Charkop, Chandivali, Dahisar East, and Gavdevi experienced AQI levels ranging from 200 to 300, placing them in the 'very unhealthy' category.

The World Air Quality Index Project categorizes the AQI into six bands, with 200-300 indicating a 'very unhealthy' range and levels above 301 being classified as 'hazardous'. The sudden and sharp rise in AQI levels on Diwali night can lead to serious health risks for the population, especially those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.