Air quality and Noise levels in Chandigarh shows year-on-year improvement during Diwali celebrations
Chandigarh, October 21, 2025: The Chandigarh Pollution Control Committee (CPCC) has reported an overall improvement in air quality and comparatively moderate noise levels during this year’s Diwali celebrations, reflecting growing public awareness and adherence to green guidelines issued by the Chandigarh Administration.
According to the official findings, only green firecrackers were permitted to be burst between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on Diwali night, as per the administration’s directions. The two-hour time window saw wide public compliance, and the overall response from residents was highly positive.
Air quality monitoring was conducted at six locations across the city—Sectors 17, 22, 25, 39, 53, and IMTECH. On a regular day (October 13, 2025), Air Quality Index (AQI) values ranged between the “Satisfactory” and “Moderate” categories. On Diwali night, short-term spikes were recorded due to firecracker use, pushing AQI levels to the “Very Poor” range in some sectors—such as Sector 53 (304), Sector 39 (318), and PEC-12 (312). However, the AQI returned to “Satisfactory” levels by early morning on October 21, aided by favorable weather and reduced pollution dispersion time.
The CPCC noted that compared to Diwali 2024, four of the six monitoring stations—Sectors 17, 22, 25, and 53—recorded improved air quality this year. This consistent improvement since 2022, the committee said, highlights the growing environmental consciousness among the public, especially among schoolchildren participating in the “Green Diwali” initiative.
Noise monitoring conducted during key evening hours (6 p.m. to midnight) showed a clear increase during the two-hour firecracker window, yet most locations remained close to permissible limits after 10 p.m. The highest noise level was recorded in Sector 22 at 80.7 dBA, while the lowest was 65.8 dBA in Sector 25.
As per CPCC norms, permissible limits stand at 55 dBA during the day and 45 dBA at night. Sectors 17 and IMTECH showed lower nighttime readings compared to last year, indicating better compliance and awareness.
The Environment Department expressed appreciation for the residents’ cooperation and urged continued support for eco-friendly festivities. “The steady improvement over recent years reflects the collective commitment of Chandigarh’s citizens toward a cleaner and healthier environment,” a CPCC spokesperson stated.