Diwali: Pollution Levels See a Slight Drop in Hyderabad This Year
Despite the festive fervor, pollution levels in Hyderabad during Diwali have shown a minor improvement compared to last year, thanks to awareness campaigns and reduced firecracker usage.
DiwaliPollutionHyderabadTspcbGreen DiwaliReal Estate NewsNov 02, 2024
According to data collected by the Telangana State Pollution Control Board (TSPCB), the particulate matter (PM) 2.5 and PM 10 levels, which are key indicators of air quality, have seen a marginal reduction. On Diwali night, the PM 2.5 levels were recorded at 120 micrograms per cubic meter, down from 145 micrograms per cubic meter in the previous year. Similarly, PM 10 levels were recorded at 180 micrograms per cubic meter, a drop from 210 micrograms per cubic meter in the previous Diwali.
This decline can be attributed to several factors, including increased awareness among the public about the health risks associated with air pollution and the efforts of local authorities to enforce regulations. The Cyberabad police, for instance, have been proactive in nabbing individuals involved in illegal firecracker sales and usage, which has helped in reducing the overall pollution levels.
Environmental organizations and citizen groups have played a crucial role in spreading awareness about the impact of fireworks on air quality. Campaigns such as 'Green Diwali' and 'No Crackers, No Pollution' have gained significant traction, encouraging people to celebrate the festival in a more eco-friendly manner. Schools and colleges have also been involved, organizing events and activities that promote sustainable practices.
The TSPCB has been monitoring air quality closely and has set up multiple monitoring stations across the city to ensure accurate data collection. Real-time data is shared with the public through various platforms, including social media and mobile applications, to keep them informed about the air quality in their localities. This transparency has helped in building a sense of responsibility among residents and has encouraged more people to take proactive steps to reduce pollution.
However, while the improvement is noteworthy, there is still a long way to go. Pollution levels during Diwali continue to be much higher than the WHO recommended levels. The TSPCB and other environmental bodies are urging the public to continue their efforts to reduce pollution by limiting the use of firecrackers and embracing more sustainable practices. They are also calling for stricter enforcement of existing regulations to prevent the sale and use of illegal and harmful fireworks.
The government has been taking several measures to address the issue of air pollution, including the promotion of electric vehicles and the implementation of cleaner fuel standards. These long-term strategies, combined with short-term efforts during festivals, are expected to contribute to a significant improvement in air quality over time.
In conclusion, while the reduction in pollution levels during Diwali in Hyderabad is a positive sign, sustained efforts are necessary to ensure that air quality continues to improve. The success of this year's initiatives shows that with collective effort and awareness, it is possible to celebrate festivals in a way that is both enjoyable and environmentally responsible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary cause of increased pollution during Diwali in Hyderabad?
The primary cause of increased pollution during Diwali in Hyderabad is the use of firecrackers, which release harmful particulate matter (PM 2.5 and PM 10) into the air, leading to a decline in air quality.
What measures have been taken to reduce pollution during Diwali in Hyderabad?
Several measures have been taken, including awareness campaigns like 'Green Diwali' and 'No Crackers, No Pollution', enforcement of regulations by the Cyberabad police, and real-time monitoring of air quality by the TSPCB.
How have schools and colleges contributed to reducing pollution during Diwali?
Schools and colleges have organized events and activities that promote sustainable practices and raise awareness about the impact of fireworks on air quality, encouraging students to celebrate Diwali in an eco-friendly manner.
What are the WHO recommended levels for PM 2.5 and PM 10?
The WHO recommended levels for PM 2.5 are 25 micrograms per cubic meter and for PM 10 are 50 micrograms per cubic meter, which are much lower than the levels typically observed during Diwali in Hyderabad.
What is the role of the TSPCB in monitoring air quality during Diwali?
The TSPCB plays a crucial role in monitoring air quality by setting up multiple monitoring stations across the city, collecting real-time data, and sharing it with the public through various platforms to keep them informed about the air quality in their localities.
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