The festive spirit of Diwali in Ranchi came with a heavy environmental cost as the city witnessed dangerous spikes in both air and noise pollution during the celebrations. While residents illuminated their homes with diyas, the extensive use of firecrackers cast a dark shadow over the city's environmental health.
Air Quality Plummets to Alarming Levels
Monitoring stations across the capital city recorded a significant deterioration in air quality throughout the Diwali night. The Air Quality Index (AQI) entered the 'poor' to 'very poor' categories in multiple locations, with particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) levels rising dramatically post-sunset as fireworks intensified.
"The haze was visible across the city, and many residents reported breathing difficulties and eye irritation," noted environmental activists who had been monitoring the situation.
Deafening Celebrations: Noise Norms Flouted
The auditory celebration proved equally concerning with noise levels far exceeding permissible limits set by the pollution control board. Residential areas recorded noise levels that would typically be associated with industrial zones, causing distress to elderly citizens, infants, and animals alike.
Hospitals reported an increase in patients with respiratory complaints and anxiety issues linked to the continuous explosive sounds that persisted late into the night.
Authorities Express Concern Over Violations
Despite awareness campaigns and regulations regarding firecracker usage, enforcement remained challenging. Officials from the Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board expressed disappointment at the widespread flouting of noise and air pollution norms.
"We had issued advisories and designated specific areas for fireworks, but compliance was minimal," acknowledged a senior official from the pollution control department.
Health Experts Sound Alarm Bells
Medical professionals in Ranchi have raised serious concerns about the immediate and long-term health impacts of such pollution spikes. Dr. Priya Sharma, a pulmonologist at a leading city hospital, warned: "The combination of toxic air and extreme noise creates a perfect storm for health emergencies, particularly affecting those with pre-existing respiratory and cardiac conditions."
The aftermath of the celebrations has left Ranchi grappling with the environmental consequences, prompting calls for more sustainable celebration methods in future festivals.
