BENGALURU: An increase in the PM10 (particles less than 10-micrometer width) levels was observed in nine out of the 12 air quality monitoring stations of Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), during Diwali.
Though pollution levels during Diwali this year was less than 2014, it was more than the levels reached last year. The potentially harmful particulate matter saw an increase from five to 75 per cent in the monitoring stations, while the levels decreased in three stations.
The highest increase was seen at KHB Industrial Area, Yelahanka, where PM10 was 175 microgram/cubic meter, which is 75 micrograms above standard limits. Other areas, which witnessed a notable increase in PM10 levels are AMCO Batteries at Mysuru Road (by 41 per cent compared to normal days), Kayisonnenihalli (by 32 per cent) and S G Halli (by 22 per cent).
Monitoring stations, which saw a reduction of PM10 matter during festival days are City Railway Station (27 per cent decrease), KSPCB office, Peenya(16 per cent) and Fortis Hospital, Nagarabhavi (34.2 per cent).
According to the KSPCB bulletin, “An average reduction of PM10 levels at 10 locations by 42.4 per cent in the year 2015 when compare to 2014, was largely due to rain during the festival. Increasing of PM10 levels by 48.0 per cent in the year 2016 compared to 2015, is attributed to dry spell resulting in the suspension of road dust, vehicular emission and other commercial activities.”
During day time between October 29 to 31, noise levels decreased at 5 pm and increased at five locations. During the night it increased at seven locations and decreased at 3 am.