The festive season of Diwali brings joy, lights, and celebrations across India, especially in the Delhi NCR region. But with it, unfortunately, comes something far more concerning — hazardous air quality. Year after year, the air quality index (AQI) spikes during and after Diwali, making it difficult to breathe. Dr. Manav Manchanda, a well-known medical expert, has been vocal about the health implications of this rising pollution.
“In this blog, we’ll explore the main reasons why the air turns hazardous post-Diwali, along with tips to protect yourself and your loved ones.”
a) Firecrackers: During Diwali, the use of firecrackers has become a widespread tradition, even though it leads to a significant increase in air pollution. According to Dr. Manav Manchanda, “Firecrackers release a mix of harmful chemicals like sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, and heavy metals into the air, causing severe respiratory issues.” The smoke from firecrackers not only pollutes the air but also produces fine particulate matter (PM2.5), which is harmful to the lungs.
b) Stubble Burning:Another major contributor to post-Diwali pollution in Delhi NCR is stubble burning in nearby states like Punjab and Haryana. Farmers burn leftover crop stubble to clear their fields, which releases a large amount of smoke and pollutants into the atmosphere. This smoke, combined with Diwali emissions, creates a toxic blanket over the region.
Dr. Manav Manchanda explains “The pollutants from stubble burning combine with the already polluted air, creating smog that reduces visibility and causes severe health risks like asthma, bronchitis, and even heart problems.”
c) Vehicle Emissions: With the festive rush, there’s also a noticeable increase in vehicular traffic, leading to higher emissions from cars, buses, and trucks. Vehicles release harmful gases like nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, which add to the already deteriorating air quality. Dr. Manchanda highlights, “Vehicle pollution is a year-round issue, but it becomes worse during the festive season due to increased travel and congestion.”
Post-Diwali, the air in Delhi NCR often reaches “severe” levels on the AQI scale. The high concentration of PM2.5 and PM10 particles can lead to:
Dr. Manav Manchanda urges people to be vigilant during this time, stating, “Exposure to polluted air can have long-term health consequences. It’s important to take preventive measures to reduce the risk.”
While it’s nearly impossible to completely avoid the pollution, there are several ways to protect yourself:
a) Use Air Purifiers: Installing air purifiers at home can help reduce indoor air pollution. Dr. Manchanda advises, “Air purifiers with HEPA filters can trap fine particles, making indoor air safer to breathe.”
a) Use Air Purifiers: Installing air purifiers at home can help reduce indoor air pollution. Dr. Manchanda advises, “Air purifiers with HEPA filters can trap fine particles, making indoor air safer to breathe.”
b) Wear N95 Masks: Whenever stepping out, especially in the early morning or evening when pollution levels are high, wear an N95 mask. These masks can filter out harmful particles and protect your lungs.
c) Avoid Outdoor Activities: Try to limit outdoor physical activities like jogging or cycling, as heavy breathing can make you inhale more pollutants. Dr. Manav Manchanda suggests, “It’s better to exercise indoors during this period to reduce exposure.”
d) Keep Windows Closed: To prevent outdoor pollutants from entering your home, keep your windows and doors closed, especially during peak pollution hours.
e) Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy: Consuming foods rich in antioxidants, like fruits and vegetables, can help boost your immunity against the effects of pollution. Drinking plenty of water also helps flush out toxins.
d) Keep Windows Closed: To prevent outdoor pollutants from entering your home, keep your windows and doors closed, especially during peak pollution hours.
e) Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy: Consuming foods rich in antioxidants, like fruits and vegetables, can help boost your immunity against the effects of pollution. Drinking plenty of water also helps flush out toxins.
Dr. Manav Manchanda is a highly respected figure in the field of respiratory medicine, with over 18 years of experience. Currently, he serves as the Director & Head of Respiratory, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine at the Asian Institute of Medical Sciences, Faridabad, a position he has held since February 2010.
Dr. Manav Manchanda is committed to raising awareness about respiratory health and the harmful effects of air pollution, particularly during and after festive periods like Diwali. He frequently shares his expert advice to help people safeguard their health.
Post-Diwali pollution in Delhi NCR is a recurring problem that needs urgent attention. As citizens, we can take preventive measures to protect our health, but we also need collective efforts to address the root causes, such as firecracker use, stubble burning, and vehicle emissions. Dr. Manav Manchanda emphasizes, “Awareness and small changes in our habits can go a long way in reducing pollution and safeguarding our health.”