Firecracker-induced air pollution and health burden during Diwali: ground and satellite assessment across 14 cities of The Indo-Gangetic Basin

This study examines the impact of Diwali festivities on air quality and public health across 14 cities in the Indo-Gangetic Basin (IGB), integrating ground-based monitoring, satellite data, and meteorological analysis. PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀ levels exceeded national standards by 3-10 times during Diwali relative to CPCB and WHO 24-hour guidelines, respectively. Delhi witnessing a 19% rise in PM₂.₅ during the festival and post-Diwali biomass burning driving PM₂.₅ spikes exceeding 250 µg m⁻³ in Hisar. Gaseous pollutants, including SO₂ and NO₂, surged sharply due to firecracker emissions, while satellite observations revealed pronounced aerosol plumes, particularly over urban and agricultural zones. Meteorological stagnation, marked by low wind speeds, temperature inversions, and high humidity, trapped pollutants, amplifying exposure risks. Health risks escalated significantly, with 80% of cities shifting to 'severe' or 'hazardous' Health Air Quality Index (HAQI) categories. Cities like Chandigarh demonstrated rapid post-Diwali PM₂.₅ recovery in contrast to cities with persistent elevated concentrations, where unregulated biomass burning and continued firecracker use extended the pollution episode.. Transitioning to sustainable urban practices, such as regionally coordinated bans on biomass burning, promoting "green crackers", and integrating real-time pollution alerts with public health advisories, is critical. Strengthening green infrastructure, adopting renewable energy, and fostering community-led awareness campaigns can balance cultural traditions with environmental resilience. Aligning these strategies with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as SDG 3 (health) and SDG 11 (sustainable cities) will ensure equitable air quality management, reduce health disparities, and build climate-resilient urban systems in the IGB. This holistic approach underscores the need for policies that prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term gains, safeguarding both public health and ecological balance in one of South Asia's most vulnerable regions.