Pollution, noise levels rose during Diwali: PCB

The noise level remained between 100 and 140 dB (decibel) in the city, according to the Pollution Control Board data. The PM 2.5 and PM 10 pollutants were recorded 545 and 535 micro grams per cubic metre respectively between 8 pm and 9 pm against the permissible limit of 60 and 100. The daily permissible limit for PM 2.5 and PM 10 pollutant is 60 and 100 micro grams per cubic metre

Pollution levels soared high despite the fact that fewer firecrackers were lit this year. According to the fireworks union, the sales were very low at 30 per cent of 2013. The city did not celebrate Diwali in a big way last year, due to concerns over fire accidents in the aftermath of the cyclone. Particulate matter refers to tiny particles in the air that can cause severe health hazards. The finer PM 2.5 particles can penetrate deeper into the respiratory tract, causing serious health issues.

Doctors opine that in the long run it can cause neuro-behavioural problems in children, arthritis, chromosomal and DNA damage and compromised immunity. Noise pollution shot up between 100 to 140 dB, according to Vizag zonal office Pollution Control Board in-charge R. Lakshmi Narayana. The noise level was monitored at NED, Jagadamba and GVMC stations.

"We did not have the online continuous ambient air quality monitoring system earlier. We have the system installed at our stations which helps get real-time figures every hour," the officer added.

Environmentalists say the effect of the pollution persists for at least two or three days.

"The rise in the sound level is really a matter of concern. Any sound beyond 85 dB can cause hearing loss. So, you can imagine the consequences of sounds of around 150 dB. The effect of the noise sometimes cannot be recognised instantly, but will affect health in the long run." said ENT specialist Dr Murali Krishna.