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Air pollution levels rise sharply in Andhra Pradesh after Diwali

Air pollution levels rise sharply in Andhra Pradesh after Diwali

VISAKHAPATNAM: Post-Diwali celebrations, air pollution levels have increased markedly in Andhra Pradesh, raising concerns about its impact on people, animals and the environment.

On November 1, a day after Diwali, AQI (Air Quality Index) levels showed a noticeable increase in pollution in several cities. As of 9 pm, Amaravati recorded AQI 190, Anantapur 100, Chittoor 93, Rajamahendravaram 164, Tirupati 85, Vijayawada 117 and Visakhapatnam 238. Earlier in the day, AQI readings at 9 am showed Amaravati 181, Anantapur 122, Chittoor 163 , Rajamahendravaram at 176 years, Tirupati at 104 years, Vijayawada at 125 years and Visakhapatnam at 246 years.

On October 31, Diwali night, the AQI levels were comparatively lower: Amaravati – 81, Anantapur – 109, Chittoor – 162, Rajamahendravaram – 124, Tirupati – 116, Vijayawada – 84 and Visakhapatnam – 180.

Last year’s data reflects higher levels with Chittoor topping the state with an AQI of 350, followed by Visakhapatnam with 322. Other places like Rajamahendravaram, Amaravati and Tirupati also saw AQI levels in the ‘poor’ category, reaching 255, 232. and 208 respectively.

An environmental science professor from Andhra University addressed the issue of seasonal deterioration in air quality, explaining that different factors influence pollution levels in different cities. He noted that in Visakhapatnam, a combination of industrial emissions, high population density and increasing vehicle usage is degrading air quality, while in another city the reason may be different. “The predominance of private vehicles over public vehicles has led to an increase in vehicle emissions as many households own multiple vehicles,” he said.

“Temperature inversions create a ‘blanket effect’, trapping pollutants near the ground and preventing them from spreading. In addition, the decomposition of plant material during this season increases biopollution. This stagnant cold air causes pollutants to build up, which then become trapped, affecting air quality and creating health risks,” he added.