The morning after Diwali in Punjab revealed a worrisome picture as cities across the State recorded hazardous levels of air pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) spiking to unprecedented levels. Despite government-imposed restrictions on cracker usage, and continued incidences of Stubble burning, the pollution levels surged to the “very poor” and “severe” categories, exceeding AQI readings of 500 in some areas.
 
In several cities, the AQI soared to alarming levels, with cities like Amritsar recording a peak of 500 by 10 pm, Mandi Gobindgarh hitting 493 by 5 am, and Khanna nearing 491 by midnight. Even Ludhiana and Jalandhar showed readings in the “very poor” range, averaging above 200 through the night, indicating an environment highly detrimental to respiratory health.
 
The average AQI across Punjab’s main cities fluctuated between 250 and 350, pushing the air quality into categories where sustained exposure can trigger significant health issues.
 
The Punjab Government, to curb Diwali-related pollution, had limited the burning of green crackers to a two-hour window, between 8 pm and 10 pm, and strictly prohibited those made with harmful chemicals like barium salts and lithium. However, these rules were widely flouted as residents continued to set off fireworks late into the night. The aftermath has left environmental experts and health professionals deeply concerned, with many emphasizing that regulatory frameworks must be tightened to prevent future spikes in pollution.
 
Health experts have raised red flags over the immediate and long-term health implications of poor air quality, particularly for vulnerable groups. With pollution levels at their peak, hospitals across Punjab saw an influx of patients reporting respiratory issues, allergies, and eye irritation. Children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions are among those most affected. The state Health Department have advised the residents to wear masks and minimize outdoor activity, especially during peak pollution hours in the early morning and late evening.
 
A senior doctor based in Ludhiana said: “We’ve observed an increase in patients complaining of asthma exacerbations, breathlessness, and other respiratory complications. Exposure to high levels of PM 2.5 and PM 10 pollutants, which are much higher than safe limits post-Diwali, heightens the risk for chronic respiratory illnesses and cardiovascular conditions.”
 
In cities such as Amritsar, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and Mandi Gobindgarh, AQI levels peaked dangerously due to the dense smoke from firecrackers. Amritsar recorded a maximum AQI of 500 at 10 pm, while Ludhiana’s AQI reached 500 by 2 am. Such hazardous levels are far above the World Health Organization’s guidelines, and prolonged exposure to these concentrations can cause lasting health effects.
 
As per the data available, Punjab’s cities saw alarming surges in air quality levels on Diwali night, with pollution reaching hazardous peaks. Amritsar recorded an average AQI of 292, spiking dramatically to 500 by 10 pm; while Ludhiana, with an average AQI of 233, also hit a critical 500 at 2 am.
 
In Jalandhar, the AQI climbed from an average of 248 to an astonishing 500 at 11 pm, echoing similar trends in Mandi Gobindgarh, where levels soared from an average AQI of 325 to 493 by 5 am.
 
Despite prior government directives, many residents celebrated with a range of firecrackers, some of which were not compliant with the “green” classification. Punjab Government had issued strict guidelines permitting only eco-friendly crackers during limited hours, cautioning residents against violations and warning of legal action. However, the continued use of traditional firecrackers past midnight in numerous areas has exposed the gap between regulations and compliance.
 
Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) has acknowledged the shortfall in enforcing restrictions effectively and is reviewing measures to improve compliance. PPCB chairperson Dr Anil Bhaskar said: “While the use of green crackers was allowed within a strict timeframe, enforcement was difficult in certain districts. Moving forward, a more robust monitoring system and awareness campaigns are essential to control pollution levels.”
 
Experts have expressed the need for a stricter approach to curb pollution spikes during festival seasons. Many recommend more extensive public awareness campaigns and assertive government action to ensure adherence to restrictions on cracker usage. Advocates for cleaner air are also urging the government to expand awareness initiatives that highlight the health hazards associated with poor air quality. Many experts argued that only through widespread education can communities be motivated to adopt more eco-friendly practices during celebrations.