The aftermath of extensive Diwali celebrations continues to cast a shadow over air quality across various cities in Rajasthan. Days after the festival concluded, the level of atmospheric pollution remains elevated in multiple regions of the state. Recent data released regarding air conditions shows that Sriganganagar recorded an air quality index of 346, making it the most polluted city in the state, while Alwar registered an index of 326 and Bikaner recorded 300. Cities including Churu, Bhiwadi, and Hanumangarh also continue to maintain an AQI above 200. The situation in the state capital Jaipur is equally troubling, with Mansarovar recording the highest AQI at 230 within the city limits.
Growing Health Concerns
The continuous rise in pollution levels poses significant health risks, particularly for individuals suffering from respiratory issues and asthma. According to data published by the Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board, air quality has failed to reach the good category in any of the major urban centers across the state. Sriganganagar and Alwar recorded air quality in the very poor category, while several other towns continue to suffer from poor air conditions. Experts indicate that besides firecrackers, vehicular emissions, industrial waste, and dust stirred up from roads are major contributing factors to the worsening air quality.
District Wise Pollution Breakdown
A review of the state's urban centers places Sriganganagar at the top of the pollution chart with an AQI of 346. Alwar follows closely with 326, and Bikaner stands at 300. Additionally, Churu recorded 283, Bhiwadi recorded 282, and Hanumangarh registered 275. Udaipur and Nagor both noted 270, Kota reached 265, and Pali recorded 263. Meanwhile, Bharatpur logged 233, Jaipur noted 232, and Ajmer recorded 228. These figures clearly indicate that air quality was severely impacted across most regional towns following the festival, with conditions turning exceptionally harsh in Sriganganagar and Alwar.
Situation Across Jaipur Localities
The state capital has not been spared from the heavy smog, with different localities reporting varying degrees of poor air. Mansarovar emerged as the most affected area in Jaipur with an AQI of 230. The police commissionerate area registered 228, while Shastri Nagar stood at 221. In contrast, Adarsh Nagar recorded 163, Murlipura noted 162, and Sitapura registered 157. These measurements demonstrate that multiple neighborhoods in Jaipur remain gripped by poor air quality. Elevated pollution levels in areas like Mansarovar and Shastri Nagar could trigger breathing difficulties for residents, making it crucial for vulnerable groups, including asthma and cardiac patients, to exercise caution.
Underlying Factors Driving Pollution
According to health experts, large-scale bursting of crackers during Diwali substantially increases the concentration of particulate matter and harmful pollutants in the atmosphere. Furthermore, smoke generated by automobiles, emissions from industrial units, and dust arising from construction activities compound the environmental strain. Consequently, it may take considerable time for air quality parameters to normalize across the region. Health professionals recommend that residents should avoid stepping outdoors unnecessarily during early morning and late evening hours when pollution concentration peaks, and advise consulting a physician immediately if respiratory discomfort arises.
