When compared with the 2024 Diwali period, air pollution levels this year have increased by 7.2%. Over the past three years, data show that the Air Quality Index (AQI) during Diwali rose by 62.6% in 2023 and by 33.9% in 2024.
Only Green Firecrackers Should Be Used – Manisha Pradhan
Chief Environmental Officer Manisha Pradhan said that although the rainfall provided temporary relief from pollution, a sudden spike in dust particles was observed once the rain stopped, a potentially dangerous situation. She emphasised the need to shift toward using only green firecrackers to reduce pollution. She added that due to the rainfall, Thane’s average air quality remained at a moderate level, though on Laxmi Pujan day, pollution increased by 11.1%.
Comparative Study of Air Quality
Under the guidance of Chief Environmental Officer Manisha Pradhan, Deputy Environmental Officer Vidya Sawant and Junior Chemist Omsatyashiv Paralkar conducted the air quality study during Diwali 2025.
The study compared air quality before Diwali (October 11, 2025) and on Laxmi Pujan day (October 21, 2025).
Before Diwali (Oct 11, 2025):
Particulate matter (PM) – 143 µg/m³
NOx – 31 µg/m³
SO₂ – 13 µg/m³
AQI – 141
On Laxmi Pujan day (Oct 21, 2025):
Particulate matter (PM) – 139 µg/m³
NOx – 30 µg/m³
SO₂ – 17 µg/m³
AQI – 157
The study also found a 3.2% rise in noise levels during Diwali compared to last year. The average noise level increased from 86 Lmax in 2024 to 89.2 Lmax this year.
Also Read: PMO refers to ministry department to relax CRZ norms