EVS

PROJECT

NAME: VIHAN SHARMA

ENROLLMENT NO.: 35321401723

TOPIC: Comparative Analysis of Delhi's AQI Pre & Post-Diwali

Air Quality Index (AQI)

The air quality index (AQI) is an index for reporting air quality on a daily basis. It is a
measure of how air pollution affects one's health within a short time period. The purpose of
the AQI is to help people know how the local air quality impacts their health. The
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) calculates the AQI for five major air pollutants, for
which national air quality standards have been established to safeguard public health.

1. Ground-level ozone

2. Particle pollution/particulate matter (PM2.5/pm 10)

3. Carbon Monoxide

4. Sulfur dioxide

5. Nitrogen dioxide

The higher the AQI value, the greater the level of air pollution and the greater the health
concerns. The concept of AQI has been widely used in many developed countries for over the
last three decades. AQI quickly disseminates air quality information in real-time.

How is AQI calculated?

Different countries use different point scales to report air quality. For instance, the United
States uses a 500 point scale, wherein rating between 0 and 50 is considered good. Rating
between 301 to 500 range is deemed hazardous. India too follows that the 500 point scale.
Every day monitors record concentrations of the major pollutants. These raw measurements
are converted into a separate AQI value for each pollutant (ground-level ozone, particle
pollution, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide) using standard formulae developed by EPA.
The highest of these AQI values are reported as the AQI value for that day.

Air Quality Index Categories

Good (0–50) - Minimal Impact

Satisfactory (51–100) - May cause minor breathing difficulties in sensitive people.

Moderately polluted (101–200) - May cause breathing difficulties in people with lung disease
like asthma, and discomfort to people with heart disease, children and older adults.

Poor (201–300) - May cause breathing difficulties in people on prolonged exposure, and
discomfort to people with heart disease

Very Poor (301–400) - May cause respiratory illness in people on prolonged exposure. Effect
may be more pronounced in people with lung and heart diseases.

Severe (401-500) - May cause respiratory issues in healthy people, and serious health issues
in people with lung/heart disease. Difficulties may be experienced even during light physical
activity.

Why is AQI important?

Awareness of daily levels of air pollution is important, especially for those suffering from
illnesses caused by exposure to air pollution.

Objectives of Air Quality Index (AQI)

Comparing air quality conditions at different locations/cities.

It also helps in identifying faulty standards and inadequate monitoring programmes.

AQI helps in analysing the change in air quality (improvement or degradation).

AQI informs the public about environmental conditions. It is especially useful for people
suffering from illnesses aggravated or caused by air pollution.

Who is most at risk from air pollution?

— People with lung diseases, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema

— Children, including teenagers

— Active people of all ages who exercise or work extensively outdoors

— Some healthy people are more sensitive to ozone

Introduction to Delhi's Pollution, Particularly During Diwali

Delhi, the capital of India, has long been grappling with severe air pollution, making it one of
the most polluted cities in the world. The city's air quality deteriorates significantly due to a
combination of factors, including vehicle emissions, industrial activities, construction dust,
and, most notably, agricultural stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab, Haryana,
and Uttar Pradesh. These contribute to high concentrations of particulate matter (PM2.5 and
PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and other harmful pollutants that pose serious health risks.

However, one of the most notable annual spikes in pollution levels occurs during Diwali, the
Hindu festival of lights. Traditionally marked by the bursting of firecrackers, Diwali has
become synonymous with sharp increases in air pollution across Delhi. The widespread use
of fireworks, which release large amounts of particulate matter (especially PM2.5), sulfur
dioxide (SO2), and other toxic chemicals, significantly worsens the air quality for days after
the celebration. During Diwali, the levels of pollutants can rise by up to 300-400% above the
normal levels, turning the air hazardous, especially for vulnerable populations such as
children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
In addition to the fireworks, stubble burning in neighbouring states adds to the pollution.
Farmers burn large quantities of crop residue, particularly after the rice harvest, to prepare
their fields for the next sowing season. This creates dense smoke, which is carried by the
wind into Delhi, further exacerbating the pollution problem. Wind direction and weather
patterns during this period play a crucial role in determining how much of this smoke enters
the city.

In recent years, efforts by the government and environmental agencies to curb pollution
during Diwali have met with mixed results. While bans on the sale of firecrackers and
campaigns promoting eco-friendly celebrations have had some impact, the pollution levels
during this time remain alarmingly high. As the AQI (Air Quality Index) often crosses into
the “severe” category, the city faces significant health and environmental challenges each
year.

Objective of the Study

Research Question:

What is the impact of Diwali on Delhi's AQI, particularly in terms of PM2.5 and PM10
levels, and how does this compare to pre-Diwali pollution levels?

Specific Goals:

• Collect and analyze AQI data from October 26 to November 5.

• Compare pollution levels before and after Diwali.
• Focus on PM2.5 and PM10 measurements and daily averages.
• Introduction to PM2.5 and PM10

PM2.5 AND PM10

PM2.5 and PM10 refer to particulate matter in the air that is small enough to be inhaled into
the respiratory system, causing a range of health problems. These particles differ in size, with
PM2.5 being finer and more dangerous to human health than PM10. Here's a detailed
introduction to both types of particulate matter.

Particulate Matter (PM)

Particulate matter (PM) refers to a mixture of tiny solid particles and liquid droplets
suspended in the air. These particles come from a variety of sources, including vehicle
exhaust, industrial emissions, construction dust, burning of biomass, stubble burning, and
natural sources like dust storms.

Particulate matter is classified based on the diameter of the particles. The smaller the particle,

the deeper it can penetrate into the human respiratory system, making it more harmful to

health. PM10 (Particulate Matter Less Than 10 Micrometers in Diameter)

Size: PM10 refers to particulate matter that is 10 micrometers or smaller in diameter, which is
about 1/7th the width of a human hair.

Sources:

• Dust and Soil Particles: Construction activities, road dust, mining, and unpaved roads.
• Industrial Emissions: From factories and power plants.
• Vehicle Emissions: Combustion of fuels leads to the release of PM10 particles.
• Fires: Both forest and agricultural fires (such as stubble burning) contribute to PM10
levels.

Health Impact:

• Respiratory Problems: PM10 particles are large enough to be trapped in the upper
parts of the respiratory system (nose, throat, and lungs), causing irritation, asthma,
and bronchitis.
• Exacerbation of Pre-existing Conditions: They can worsen conditions like COPD
(Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and cardiovascular diseases.
• Air Quality Indicator: High concentrations of PM10 are often associated with poor air
quality, especially in areas with heavy traffic and industrial activity.

PM2.5 (Particulate Matter Less Than 2.5 Micrometers in Diameter)

Size: PM2.5 particles are even smaller, measuring 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter, which
is about 1/30th the width of a human hair. Due to their size, PM2.5 particles are much finer
and can penetrate deeper into the lungs and enter the bloodstream.

Sources:

Vehicle Emissions: Diesel engines, particularly from trucks, buses, and cars, emit significant
amounts of PM2.5.
Burning of Biomass: Stubble burning, forest fires, and the burning of wood or crop residue
release large amounts of fine particulate matter.

Industrial Pollution: Emissions from coal-fired power plants, factories, and refineries.

Fireworks: The burning of fireworks, particularly during festivals like Diwali, is a major
source of PM2.5 in urban areas like Delhi.

Other Combustion Activities: Fossil fuel burning in domestic heating, cooking, and power
generation also contributes to PM2.5 levels.

Health Impact:

• Lung and Heart Diseases: PM2.5 can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing chronic
respiratory diseases, such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema. Long-term exposure
can lead to lung cancer and heart diseases.
• Systemic Effects: These tiny particles can enter the bloodstream, contributing to
cardiovascular problems, stroke, and even premature death.
• Vulnerable Populations: Children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health
conditions (e.g., heart disease or respiratory conditions) are especially vulnerable to
the effects of PM2.5.
• Mental Health Effects: Recent studies have shown that long-term exposure to PM2.5

may also be linked to cognitive decline and increased risks of mental health disorders.

Why Are PM2.5 and PM10 Dangerous?

Small Size: Because of their tiny size, both PM2.5 and PM10 particles are capable of
bypassing the body’s natural defense systems (like the nose and throat) and reaching deep
into the lungs, causing inflammation, respiratory diseases, and other long-term health
problems.

Long Suspension in the Air: PM2.5 particles, in particular, remain suspended in the air for a
longer period due to their light weight and small size. They can travel over long distances,
affecting areas far from their source.

Cumulative Health Effects: Continuous exposure to elevated levels of PM2.5 and PM10 over
time can lead to chronic diseases, such as lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and premature
death.
PM2.5 particles are more harmful because of their size. They can enter the body’s smallest
airways and alveoli (the air sacs in the lungs where oxygen is exchanged), where they can
cause significant damage. Due to their fine nature, PM2.5 particles can also pass into the
bloodstream and circulate throughout the body, leading to systemic inflammation, heart
disease, stroke, and even cognitive impairments. In contrast, PM10 particles, while still
harmful, are generally trapped in the upper respiratory system and are less likely to penetrate
deep into the lungs. As a result, PM10 is often associated with less severe long-term health
effects compared to PM2.5. Pollution Sources in Delhi

Delhi’s air quality is influenced by several factors, with significant seasonal spikes in
pollution levels, especially during events like Diwali. Key contributors to pollution include
fireworks, stubble burning, and urban activities such as traffic, construction, and industrial
emissions.

1. Diwali Fireworks: Contribution to Air Pollution

Diwali, the festival of lights, is known for its vibrant displays of fireworks. However, this
tradition also leads to a significant spike in air pollution levels in Delhi. During Diwali, the
use of firecrackers releases large amounts of particulate matter (PM), gases, and chemicals
into the air, which causes both immediate and long-term environmental and health impacts.

Air Pollution from Fireworks:

PM2.5 and PM10: Fireworks release fine particulate matter, especially PM2.5 (particles less
than 2.5 micrometers in diameter), which can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream,
leading to respiratory and cardiovascular issues. PM10 (particles less than 10 micrometers in
diameter) is also released, causing irritation in the upper respiratory tract.

Toxic Gases: Fireworks emit harmful gases such as carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide
(SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These gases
contribute to smog formation, which lowers visibility and increases the health risks associated
with air pollution.

Heavy Metals: Firecrackers often contain toxic metals like lead, barium, and strontium, which
are harmful to both human health and the environment. These metals can contaminate the air
and settle on the ground, contributing to long-term pollution.

Impact on Air Quality:

During Diwali, Delhi’s air quality often deteriorates sharply, with PM2.5 levels increasing 10
to 15 times above normal. The effects of this spike in pollution can be seen in the sharp rise in
AQI levels, which sometimes cross the "hazardous" category, posing serious health risks,
particularly to vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing
respiratory conditions.

2. Stubble Burning: Role of Crop Residue Burning in Increasing Pollution Levels

Stubble burning, a common practice in neighboring states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar
Pradesh, is one of the major contributors to the air pollution crisis in Delhi, especially during
the months of October and November. After the rice harvest, farmers burn the leftover straw
(stubble) to clear fields quickly, which releases massive amounts of pollutants into the air.

Air Pollution from Stubble Burning:

• Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10): The burning of crop residues releases large
quantities of PM2.5 and PM10 into the atmosphere. These particles travel across vast
distances and settle in Delhi, significantly affecting air quality.
• Greenhouse Gases and Toxic Compounds: Apart from particulate matter, stubble
burning also emits carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), carbon monoxide (CO),
and other harmful gases. Methane, in particular, is a potent greenhouse gas.
• Persistent Smoke: The smoke from stubble burning lingers for extended periods,
particularly when weather conditions (such as low wind speeds and temperature
inversions) trap pollutants close to the ground. This increases the duration of high
pollution levels in Delhi, particularly in the evenings and mornings when the wind is
calm.

Impact on Delhi’s Pollution Levels:

• Transboundary Pollution: The smoke from crop burning in the neighboring states of
Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh is carried by winds into Delhi, causing a sharp
increase in PM2.5 levels. During the peak of stubble burning season, particularly
around Diwali, Delhi experiences severe air pollution, with AQI levels regularly
reaching the "very poor" or "hazardous" categories.
• Synergistic Effect with Fireworks: The combination of fireworks during Diwali and
stubble burning leads to a significant deterioration in air quality. The resulting “toxic
 cocktail” of pollutants is especially dangerous for people with respiratory conditions
like asthma or chronic bronchitis.

3. Other Contributing Factors: Traffic, Construction, and Industrial Emissions

In addition to fireworks and stubble burning, several urban activities contribute to the air
pollution problem in Delhi year-round. These include traffic emissions, construction dust, and
industrial activities, all of which release large amounts of pollutants into the atmosphere.

• Traffic Emissions:

Vehicles as Major Pollutants: With over 10 million vehicles on the roads, vehicular emissions
are a major source of air pollution in Delhi. Cars, buses, and trucks emit nitrogen oxides
(NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), and volatile organic
compounds (VOCs), all of which degrade air quality. Diesel-powered vehicles, in particular,
are a significant source of fine particulate matter (PM2.5).

• Congestion and Stop-and-Go Traffic: The high levels of traffic congestion in Delhi
exacerbate pollution levels, as vehicles emit more pollutants when idling or during
slow-moving traffic. Areas with high traffic, such as Central Delhi, Connaught Place,
and Anand Vihar, experience some of the highest levels of air pollution.
• Construction and Dust

Construction Activities: Rapid urbanization has led to extensive construction activities in

Delhi, which release significant amounts of dust into the air. The demolition of buildings,
road work, and the construction of new infrastructure (such as flyovers and metro projects)
contribute to the elevated levels of PM10 and PM2.5.

Dust from Roads and Unpaved Surfaces: Construction sites, unpaved roads, and unregulated
dumping of debris also contribute to the dust problem, especially during dry conditions. Dust
particles contribute to PM10 levels, which, when combined with other sources of pollution,
worsen the overall air quality.

• Industrial Emissions:

Factories and Power Plants: Delhi’s industrial sector, including small and medium-scale
industries, contributes to air pollution through the release of sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen
oxides (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and particulate matter (PM). Factories in
areas like Okhla, Shahdara, and Wazirpur are significant contributors.
 • Thermal Power Plants: Coal-fired power plants in nearby regions also release large
quantities of PM, NOx, and SO₂, which travel to Delhi, particularly during the cooler
months when the winds bring pollutants to the city.

AQI DATA from 26th October 2024 to 5th November 2024 PRE-DIWALI(26TH

OCTOBER TO 30TH OCTOBER)

- 26TH OCTOBER 2024

-27TH OCTOBER 2024

-28TH OCTOBER 2024

-29TH OCTOBER 2024

-30TH OCTOBER 2024

-31ST OCTOBER
POST DIWALI(1ST NOVEMEBER- 5TH NOVEMBER 2024)
LINE GRAPH SHOWING THE AQI PM2.5 AND PM10 FROM 26TH OCTOBER 2024 TO
5 NOVEMBER 2024

Detailed Day-by-Day Analysis

October 26 - 28, 2024: Pre-Diwali Period

26-Oct-24:

9AM: PM2.5 = 293 µg/m³, PM10 = 366 µg/m³.

6PM: PM2.5 = 332 µg/m³, PM10 = 376 µg/m³.

Analysis: On this day, pollution levels are already very high. PM2.5 levels near 300 µg/m³ are
significantly above the safe limits, which might indicate a combination of vehicular pollution
and burning of crop residues in the nearby agricultural areas.

27-Oct-24:

9AM: PM2.5 = 406 µg/m³, PM10 = 395 µg/m³.

6PM: PM2.5 = 387 µg/m³, PM10 = 391 µg/m³.

Analysis: A notable increase in pollution at 9AM (PM2.5 > 400 µg/m³) compared to the
previous day. This spike could be due to low wind speeds and the accumulation of pollutants
in the atmosphere due to stubble burning from nearby states, such as Punjab and Haryana.
The difference between AM and PM readings narrows, which may suggest that the pollution
level is stabilized throughout the day due to weather conditions.

28-Oct-24:

9AM: PM2.5 = 356 µg/m³, PM10 = 324 µg/m³.

6PM: PM2.5 = 336 µg/m³, PM10 = 322 µg/m³.

Analysis: Pollution levels remain high but slightly lower than the previous days, indicating
some improvement in atmospheric conditions or reduced activity related to pollution sources.
However, PM2.5 levels are still in the hazardous category.

October 29 - 31, 2024: Steady High Pollution Levels

29-Oct-24:

9AM: PM2.5 = 318 µg/m³, PM10 = 303 µg/m³.

6PM: PM2.5 = 315 µg/m³, PM10 = 307 µg/m³.

Analysis: Pollution levels remain high but fairly stable between morning and evening,
suggesting that local pollution sources such as vehicular emissions, construction, and
industrial activity are active.

30-Oct-24:

9AM: PM2.5 = 405 µg/m³, PM10 = 385 µg/m³.

6PM: PM2.5 = 353 µg/m³, PM10 = 415 µg/m³.

Analysis: There is a significant jump in PM2.5 levels in the morning, and by evening, the
PM10 levels surpass 400 µg/m³, suggesting a combination of increased vehicular emissions
and firecracker usage as Diwali approaches.

31-Oct-24:

9AM: PM2.5 = 371 µg/m³, PM10 = 421 µg/m³.

6PM: PM2.5 = 362 µg/m³, PM10 = 399 µg/m³.

Analysis: A minor decline in PM2.5 levels in the evening compared to the morning, but the
PM10 level remains very high, signaling ongoing pollution from both construction and
vehicular emissions.

November 1 - 5, 2024: Diwali Period and Post-Diwali Surge

1-Nov-24:

9AM: PM2.5 = 390 µg/m³, PM10 = 393 µg/m³.

6PM: PM2.5 = 369 µg/m³, PM10 = 381 µg/m³.

Analysis: Pollution levels continue to remain in the very high category, with PM2.5 levels
crossing 350 µg/m³. At this point, pollution from fireworks, vehicular emissions, and stubble
burning likely begins to peak.

2-Nov-24:

9AM: PM2.5 = 356 µg/m³, PM10 = 383 µg/m³.

6PM: PM2.5 = 386 µg/m³, PM10 = 407 µg/m³.

Analysis: This day sees a significant rise in PM2.5 levels during the evening, indicating that
fireworks are contributing heavily to pollution levels. PM10 levels are also elevated,
suggesting a combination of factors, including stubble burning and vehicular emissions.

3-Nov-24 (Diwali Day):

9AM: PM2.5 = 416 µg/m³, PM10 = 429 µg/m³.

6PM: PM2.5 = 427 µg/m³, PM10 = 425 µg/m³.

Analysis: The pollution levels on Diwali are at their highest, with both PM2.5 and PM10
exceeding 400 µg/m³. This spike is likely due to widespread firecracker use, stubble burning,
and calm weather conditions that trap pollutants in the atmosphere.

4-Nov-24 (Post-Diwali):

9AM: PM2.5 = 432 µg/m³, PM10 = 409 µg/m³.

6PM: PM2.5 = 438 µg/m³, PM10 = 442 µg/m³.

Analysis: Post-Diwali, pollution remains extremely high, with PM2.5 levels peaking at 438
µg/m³ in the evening. This could be due to the residual effect of firecrackers, combined with
persistent stubble burning and low wind conditions that hinder the dispersal of pollutants.

5-Nov-24:

9AM: PM2.5 = 434 µg/m³, PM10 = 453 µg/m³.

6PM: PM2.5 = 417 µg/m³, PM10 = 406 µg/m³.

Analysis: Pollution levels begin to drop slightly by evening, but they remain extremely
hazardous. The sustained high levels of PM2.5 and PM10 are likely the result of a
combination of post-Diwali fireworks, stubble burning, and continued vehicular emissions.

Key Insights :

1. High Pollution Levels During Diwali: Pollution reaches its peak on 3rd November
(Diwali day), with both PM2.5 and PM10 crossing the 400 µg/m³ mark, primarily due
to the intense use of firecrackers and ongoing stubble burning in neighboring states.
The increase in pollution levels on Diwali night is significantly higher than on other
days.

2. Persistent Elevated Pollution Post-Diwali: Even after Diwali, pollution levels

remain elevated due to residual firecracker smoke, crop residue burning, and calm
weather conditions that prevent pollutants from dispersing.
3. Impact of Weather on Pollution: The relatively low wind speeds and temperature
inversion (especially from 3rd November onwards) trap pollutants close to the
surface, leading to sustained high pollution levels.
4. Steady Pollution Levels Leading Up to Diwali: In the days leading to Diwali, the
pollution levels are already high, ranging between 300-400 µg/m³. These high levels
indicate ongoing construction and vehicular emissions, which are exacerbated as
Diwali approaches.