Patna Air Quality Rises 32% After Diwali: City Sets New Pollution Control Measures

Patna’s air quality index (AQI) surged by 32% following last year’s Diwali celebrations, raising alarms among residents and health officials. In response, the municipal administration has unveiled a multi‑pronged strategy aimed at reducing particulate matter and other pollutants before the next festive season. The plan includes a temporary ban on private vehicles in key traffic corridors, promotion of electric two‑wheelers, and stricter enforcement of emission norms for commercial fleets. Additionally, the city’s Pollution Control Board will intensify monitoring at major industrial sites and launch a public awareness campaign on the health risks of poor air quality. Officials expect the combined measures to bring AQI levels down to safer thresholds by mid‑December.