Punjab experienced a noteworthy improvement in Air Quality Index (AQI) levels during this year’s Diwali festivities, with a reduction of 7.6% compared to 2022 and a substantial 22.8% decrease from 2021. Environment Minister Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer shared these positive findings in a press communiqué.
Real-Time Monitoring for Enhanced Air Quality
In alignment with Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s directive to prioritize air quality improvement, the Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) strategically installed Continuous Ambient Air-Quality Monitoring Stations in six key cities: Amritsar, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Khanna, Mandi Gobindgarh, and Patiala. These stations provided real-time data to assess and address air quality concerns effectively.
City-Specific Reductions in AQI
Minister Hayer highlighted specific reductions in AQI across cities. Amritsar, Ludhiana, Khanna, Mandi Gobindgarh, and Patiala all exhibited lower AQI levels compared to the past two Diwali celebrations.
Overall Improvement in Average AQI for Punjab
The average AQI for Punjab registered at 207, a marginal increase over the maximum AQI value of 200 for the moderate category. This is notably lower than the AQI recorded in 2022 (224) and 2021 (268), indicating a positive overall trend in air quality improvement.
Maximum AQI in Amritsar
The maximum AQI level recorded this year was 235 in Amritsar, marking a significant improvement from the previous year’s maximum of 262 in the same city.
Commitment to Air Quality Enhancement
Minister Hayer emphasized the commitment to furthering air quality initiatives and acknowledged the success of these efforts during the Diwali period. The results indicate progress in mitigating air pollution concerns, reflecting a positive stride toward a cleaner and healthier environment in Punjab.
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