Ahmedabad Air Quality Remains ‘Toxic’ Ahead of Diwali, AQI Crosses 150 Across Residential Areas

Ahmedabad residents are facing deteriorating air quality ahead of Diwali, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 150 across several residential and commercial areas during the first week of November.

The worsening pollution has raised concerns about further deterioration after Diwali firecracker celebrations, with doctors warning of an increase in respiratory emergencies, particularly among children, senior citizens and people with existing health conditions.

While industrial areas continue to grapple with emissions, residential neighbourhoods are also recording unhealthy pollution levels, making it increasingly difficult for residents to breathe clean air.

AQI Crosses 150 in Several Ahmedabad Neighbourhoods

Air quality monitoring figures for the first week of November show that several parts of Ahmedabad have recorded AQI levels above 150 on multiple days.

The figures indicate that pollution is no longer confined to industrial pockets but has spread across residential and commercial neighbourhoods.

With Diwali celebrations underway, the possibility of further deterioration has raised concerns among residents, particularly those living in areas already exposed to high levels of pollution.

Ahmedabad Air Quality Index on Kali Chaudas

Industrial Emissions, Vehicle Exhaust Add to Pollution

Industrial emissions from areas such as Vatva, Odhav, Narol and Pirana continue to contribute to Ahmedabad's deteriorating air quality.

Reports have also highlighted instances of factories allegedly burning old tyres, plastic and waste oil at night, releasing toxic fumes into the surrounding atmosphere.

The growing number of vehicles and frequent traffic congestion across the city are adding to the problem, increasing the concentration of harmful pollutants, including carbon monoxide.

Construction activities linked to major infrastructure projects and buildings have also contributed to rising particulate matter levels. Poor implementation of dust-control measures at construction sites has allowed dust to spread into nearby residential areas.

Pirana Dumping Site Fires Add to the Problem

Frequent fires at the Pirana dumping site have emerged as another source of concern. The smoke and toxic gases released during these incidents affect surrounding neighbourhoods and add to the city's existing pollution burden.

Despite closure notices and action against industrial units accused of violating pollution norms in Vatva, Narol and Odhav, air quality in the affected areas remains a concern.

The continuing deterioration has also raised questions about the effectiveness of measures announced to control industrial and urban pollution.

AQI Above 150 Raises Health Concerns

Doctors have warned that prolonged exposure to polluted air can trigger respiratory problems and worsen existing health conditions.

Residents are already reporting symptoms such as eye irritation, throat infections and persistent coughing. People suffering from asthma, bronchitis and heart-related conditions face a higher risk of complications.

Medical experts fear that the situation could lead to an increase in emergency hospital visits, particularly after firecracker-related pollution adds to the existing concentration of airborne pollutants.

Prolonged exposure to harmful air pollutants can also increase the risk of serious respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

Children, Elderly Advised to Limit Outdoor Exposure

Doctors have advised children, senior citizens and people with respiratory illnesses to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, particularly during early morning and late-night hours when pollution levels may remain high.

Residents have also been advised to use well-fitted masks when stepping outside and avoid prolonged exposure to polluted surroundings.

With Ahmedabad already recording AQI levels above 150 in several neighbourhoods, the coming days could pose further health challenges if pollution levels rise after Diwali celebrations.