Firecrackers Accounted for Over 80% of Delhi’s Post-Diwali Pollution: IITM Study

Firecrackers were responsible for more than 80% of Delhi’s pollution load on the day after Diwali, according to estimates by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).

A separate IITM assessment found that firecrackers contributed 71.1% of the capital’s PM2.5 concentration between 1 am and 9 am on November 9. Their contribution had risen sharply from 5.6% on November 7 to 43.4% on Diwali, November 8.

The impact was also reflected in pollution measurements, with PM2.5 levels reaching alarming highs in several parts of Delhi. However, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) later revised some of the reported figures.

Interestingly, vehicular emissions accounted for only 6.9% of PM2.5 during the assessment period, while secondary inorganic and organic aerosols contributed 5% and 4.5%, respectively.

Delhi’s AQI stood at 376 on Diwali, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category. It later improved to 299 on November 10 before rising slightly to 302.

Favourable wind conditions are expected to bring further improvement in air quality. The study highlights how firecrackers can trigger a sharp rise in pollution, adding to the year-round burden caused by vehicles, industries, construction activities and road dust.

Meanwhile, according to AQI.in data published on November 9, 93 Indian cities featured among the world’s 100 most polluted cities.