Air quality worsens in multiple Indian cities after Diwali celebrations
After Diwali celebrations, air quality in several Indian cities has worsened significantly. Cities like Gurugram, Jind, and Chandigarh reported air quality index (AQI) levels in the 'poor' and 'very poor' categories, with Gurugram reaching 322. Punjab and Haryana also experienced high pollution levels, with Jalandhar and Ludhiana recording AQI values of 256 and 234, respectively. The Central Pollution Control Board noted that the poor air quality raises health concerns across the country. Despite regulations allowing only "green crackers," many residents exceeded the permitted time for firecrackers. Authorities in Punjab and Haryana had aimed to limit pollution during the festival, but enforcement appears to have been challenging.