Assessment of Air Pollutant Levels Before and After Diwali in Jaipur, India

Abstract

Background: Air pollution is a major environmental health concern, and festival-related activities such as firecracker bursting during Diwali significantly contribute to short-term deterioration in air quality. Objective: To assess the variation in air pollutant levels before and after Diwali in Jaipur and evaluates the impact of firecracker emissions on ambient air quality. Methodology: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data obtained from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Data on AQI and major air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, NO₂, NH₃, SO₂, CO, and Ozone) were collected from six monitoring stations in Jaipur for 15 days before and 15 days after Diwali (excluding peak days). Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-test, with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: A significant increase in PM2.5 levels was observed post-Diwali (179.1±55.82 µg/m³ to 256.9 ± 55.23 µg/m³; p<0.001). Ozone levels also increased significantly (82.3±18.8µg/m³ to 100.4±12.4 µg/m³; p=0.003). Other pollutants such as PM10, NO₂, NH₃, SO₂ and CO showed no statistically significant change. Conclusion: Diwali celebrations significantly worsen air quality, particularly increasing PM2.5 and ozone levels. Regulatory measures and public awareness are essential to mitigate these effects.