Air quality levels plummet to 'very poor' in Noida, 'severe' in Ghaziabad

NOIDA/GZB: Despite October 19, 2017 being the cleanest Diwali in a long time, Noida and Ghaziabad struggled with 'very poor' and 'severe' air quality, respectively, on Friday morning.

The air quality levels were, however, better than what it was last year. Yet, the air quality has been far from satisfactory this year.

As recorded by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air quality in Noida was mentioned 'very poor', with its air quality index (AQI) recording the presence of PM2.5 at 299.

However, citizens of Ghaziabad were chocked more, as AQI levels in Noida's neighbouring city were found to be 'severe'. On Thursday even, the presence of PM2.5 in Ghaziabad was recorded between 400 and 420.

Online indicators of pollution monitoring stations in both cities glowed to 'dark red', indicating that the air quality was at least 'very poor'.

Due to high presence of PM10 and PM2.5, both cities were engulfed in smog and had poor visibility.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court's order to ban sale of firecrackers did not seem to have a high impact, as a large number of residents in both Noida and Ghaziabad were seen bursting crackers, especially in the evening.