Pune Defies Tradition, Enjoys Cleaner Air During Diwali Celebrations

According to the latest data, Pune's air quality on the main Diwali day (Lakshmi puja day) this year was significantly better than in previous years. As of 7:00 pm on October 21, 2025, the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 132, placing it in the 'moderate' category, a noticeable improvement from the 'poor' air quality levels recorded in the past.

While some monitoring stations in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad did report higher pollution levels in the 'poor' category, the overall trend was encouraging. Experts attributed this improvement to a combination of favorable meteorological conditions and reduced emissions. With clear skies and active winds, the present conditions allowed for better air circulation, in contrast to the stagnant air and temperature inversions that had trapped pollutants in previous years.

Another contributing factor was the reduction in vehicular activity during the festive period, as offices and markets remained closed or operated with limited traffic. Increased public awareness, stricter enforcement of firecracker sale regulations, and a growing preference for eco-friendly celebrations might have also played a role in reducing emissions this year.

Overall, the city avoided the severe air quality deterioration typically observed during Diwali, thanks to the combination of favorable weather, active wind flow, and conscious community behavior. Authorities and scientists, however, continue to monitor the situation closely, as air quality could still worsen in the following hours due to the impact of firecracker bursting.