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Diwali Eve: Lucknow's Air Turns Toxic!
6 Nov
Summary
- Lucknow's AQI rose from satisfactory to poor category before Diwali.
- Vehicular movement and construction increased pollution significantly.
- Firecracker emissions are expected to worsen air quality further.
Lucknow's air quality has deteriorated significantly, shifting from a satisfactory level to the poor category in the days preceding Diwali. This decline, occurring even before major firecracker usage, has prompted significant concern. The city's Air Quality Index (AQI) rose from 77 on November 2 to 223 by Wednesday, indicating a rapid worsening of conditions.
The surge in pollution levels is linked to increased vehicular movement and congestion around busy markets as residents shop for Diwali. Prolonged traffic jams contribute to higher emissions due to idling and stop-and-go traffic. Additionally, ongoing construction activities across the city have added to the dust and pollution load.
Environmental experts predict that firecracker emissions, combined with existing dust and vehicle exhaust, will likely exacerbate the air quality issues in the upcoming days. Traffic police have implemented diversions and restrictions in key shopping areas to manage congestion from November 6 to November 9.
