Festival's Aftermath: Air Quality Plummets in AP Cities

Deepavali festivities in Andhra Pradesh resulted in a significant decline in air quality across several cities. Visakhapatnam and Rajamahendravaram recorded 'poor' air quality on the day after the festival, a stark contrast to the 'moderate' levels seen in other prominent cities. The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board reported that particulate matter exceeded National Ambient Air Quality Standards, and noise levels reached peaks of 111-112 dB(A) in Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada, far surpassing the permitted 45 dB(A) for residential areas.

Medical professionals are highlighting the health implications of this pollution surge. A pulmonologist noted an increase in patients with respiratory distress following exposure to dense smoke. Asthma exacerbations, COPD, and bronchitis are reported to worsen when air quality index (AQI) crosses 200. The long-term effects of prolonged exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) include increased risks of heart attack, stroke, memory loss, anxiety, and even lung cancer. Consequently, vulnerable groups, especially those with existing lung ailments, are advised to wear face masks outdoors and consider using air purifiers at home.