Mumbai: Environmentalist Sumaira Abdulali, founder of the Awaaz Foundation, said that Mumbai’s air pollution levels during Diwali reduced due to unseasonal rain, not because of effective government measures. Speaking about the twin threats of air and noise pollution, she urged authorities to act on long-term solutions instead of relying on temporary relief from weather patterns.
Abdulali explained that air quality in the city began to deteriorate as Diwali celebrations began but improved slightly when unexpected showers occurred. “Owing to the rain, air pollution went down, although noise pollution continued unabated,” she said. Firecrackers, she added, were being burst well beyond the permissible time limit of 10 p.m., especially in residential areas.
While many Mumbaikars noticed cleaner air this festive season, Abdulali warned against complacency. “Unseasonal rains cannot be counted as mitigating measures. There has to be action from the government to reduce pollution levels,” she said.
According to the Awaaz Foundation, both air and noise pollution pose serious risks to public health. Despite repeated campaigns and legal restrictions, enforcement remains weak. Experts have called for stronger regulation of firecracker sales, stricter adherence to noise limits, and investment in cleaner urban transport systems.
Abdulali, who has been at the forefront of environmental advocacy in Mumbai, continues to highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts between citizens and the administration to curb pollution sustainably.
