Post-Deepavali Air Pollution Concerns Rise Beyond Fireworks in Andhra Pradesh

Post-Deepavali Air Pollution Concerns Rise Beyond Fireworks in Andhra Pradesh

VoM News Desk | November 15, 2023 | 10:24 AM IST | Andhra Pradesh, Climate & Environment | Follow on Google News

Post-Deepavali Air Pollution Concerns Rise Beyond Fireworks in Andhra Pradesh

Post-Deepavali Air Pollution Concerns Rise Beyond Fireworks in Andhra Pradesh

The aftermath of the Deepavali festival has raised significant concerns about air pollution, transcending the usual associations with lights and crackers. While acknowledging the role of fireworks in exacerbating air pollution, it’s crucial to recognize that they are not the sole contributors to the deteriorating air quality levels.

CPCB Reports ‘Very Poor’ Air Quality Index

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported ‘very poor’ air quality index (AQI) levels in several districts following the festival. Chittoor recorded the highest AQI at 350, followed by Visakhapatnam at 322. Additionally, Rajamahendravaram, Amaravati, Vijayawada, and Tirupati also experienced ‘poor’ AQI levels.

Consistent Air Quality Decline Pre-Festival

Interestingly, the decline in air quality was not a sudden post-festival occurrence. AQI levels had been consistently poor in the days leading up to Deepavali. Data from early November indicates a gradual worsening of air quality in various districts, suggesting that factors beyond festival activities are contributing to the pollution.

Varied Causes of Air Pollution

AJ Solomon Raju, former head of the Department of Environmental Sciences at Andhra University, elaborated on the causes of air pollution. In Visakhapatnam, for instance, factors like the presence of numerous industries, high population density, and an increase in vehicles significantly contribute to pollution. The preference for personal vehicles over public transport, common in many households, further exacerbates the issue.

Climatic Factors in Winter Air Pollution

Solomon also explained the climatic aspects affecting air pollution in winter. Cold air tends to trap pollution due to its denser and slower-moving nature, particularly at night when temperatures drop. This phenomenon leads to limited pollutant dispersion. The degradation of biological material and temperature inversions, where cold air acts as a blanket trapping pollutants, contribute to heightened pollution levels during winter months.

Tree Cover and Urban Initiatives

While highlighting the potential impact of insufficient tree cover on rising pollution, Solomon commended the efforts of the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC). The GVMC’s initiatives, like planting trees on road medians, are crucial steps toward enhancing the city’s green cover and potentially mitigating air pollution.

VoM News Desk

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