Air Quality Deteriorates During Diwali, Leading to Health Concerns
Air Quality Deteriorates During Diwali, Leading to Health Concerns
India · Published Nov 2, 2026
• During the Diwali festival, air quality in India significantly deteriorates due to the widespread bursting of firecrackers, which release harmful pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, PM 2.5, PM 10, and heavy metals into the atmosphere.
• This is further exacerbated by post-harvest agricultural burning in some regions and weather conditions like cooler temperatures and low wind speeds, which trap pollutants and create a thick layer of smog.

Impact & Risks

The deteriorating air quality poses significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, individuals with asthma, and those suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Common symptoms include airway and throat irritation, coughing, wheezing, breathlessness, and worsening of pre-existing respiratory conditions. Outdoor workers are also at higher risk due to prolonged exposure to polluted air.

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