A layer of haze envelops Mumbai after firecracker bursting on Diwali, AQI drops to ‘poor’ category

Mumbai witnessed a layer of thick smog in many parts on Monday morning, marking a departure from the clear skies and improved air quality experienced in the preceding days. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) data, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in Mumbai stood at 234 with the air quality deteriorating to the ‘poor’ category a day after Diwali.

While the city had enjoyed relatively better air quality recently, the firecracker bursting on Diwali contributed to a sudden surge in pollution. Firecrackers on Diwali resulted in a cloud of dense smog, affecting visibility in many areas on Monday morning. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted partially cloudy skies for the morning.

The Air Quality Index in many areas remained ‘poor’ to ‘very poor’ in several parts.

- Andheri: 174 AQI (Moderate)

- Colaba: 173 AQI (Moderate)

- Worli: 134 AQI (Moderate)

- Malad: 309 AQI (Very Poor)

- BKC: 312 AQI (Very Poor)

- Navi Mumbai: 184 AQI (Moderate)

- Borivali: 307 AQI (Very Poor)

- Mazagaon: 267 AQI (Poor)

Despite efforts to curb excessive firecracker usage, some areas reported increased sound and air pollution during Diwali celebrations, according to a report by the Times of India. Residents of Thane, Navi Mumbai and Kalyan-Dombivli complained about deteriorating air quality and the failure to control the firecracker bursting on Diwali, the report added.

In the lead-up to Diwali, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had appealed to citizens to exercise restraint with fireworks due to heightened pollution levels. The Bombay High Court had also mandated specific hours for firecracker use on Diwali, allowing them only between 8 pm and 10 pm.

After the surge in pollution levels, the BMC is gearing up to launch a new mobile application designed to enable residents to register complaints about air pollution, according to a report by the Indian Express. Iqbal Singh Chahal, BMC Commissioner and state-appointed administrator, made the announcement about the new initiative. The app aims to provide transparency by allowing users to track the actions taken by authorities against violators. It will also geo-tag locations where actions have been implemented and maintain an online database of complaints and corresponding actions, the report added.

Earlier, on October 31, the Bombay HC emphasised the urgency of addressing air pollution issues. During a hearing on November 10, BMC’s counsel had assured that the civic body would create a special website and app, along with publishing emergency helpline numbers for air pollution complaints.

In tandem with the BMC’s efforts, the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) has initiated actions against violators. Over the past few weeks, notices have been sent to units owned by prominent companies like Larsen and Toubro, CEAT, JSW Green, and Rashtriya Chemicals, among others.