Pallavi Sharma
DHARAMSHALA: Even after the smoke and sparkle of Diwali celebrations, Himachal Pradesh’s capital Shimla has once again lived up to its title of Queen of Hills, this time for its remarkably clean and fresh air.
A report released by the Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board (HPSPCB) revealed that air pollution levels across the state remained well within satisfactory limits, even during the festive period.
Compared to 2024, the overall air pollution in Himachal Pradesh showed a significant decline. Not a single city or town in the state recorded air quality in the “poor” or “severe” categories, underscoring the state’s commitment to maintaining its natural purity.
Air quality monitored from October 13 to 19
The HPSPCB monitored ambient air quality from October 13 to October 19, including Diwali day, across 12 major urban centres — Shimla, Parwanoo, Dharamshala, Damtal, Sundernagar, Paonta Sahib, Kala Amb, Una, Baddi, Barotiwala, Nalagarh and Manali. The results highlighted a largely positive trend, with most towns recording better air than last year’s festive season.
According to the report, Parwanoo recorded an air quality index (AQI) of 118 this Diwali, down from 217 last year. Baddi saw an impressive improvement from a hazardous 392 in 2024 to 167 this year. Similarly, Sundernagar’s AQI dropped from 104 to 68, while Barotiwala showed a decline from 139 to 94. Nalagarh also reported cleaner air with AQI falling from 128 to 79.
Shimla, in particular, stood out with an AQI of 57 this Diwali, improving from 66 in 2024, firmly placing it in the “satisfactory” category. Damtal, Paonta Sahib, Kala Amb, and Manali too recorded healthier readings compared to last year.
Dharamshala, Una report slight increase in pollution levels
However, two towns — Dharamshala and Una — reported slight increases in pollution levels. Dharamshala’s AQI rose from 109 to 120, while Una recorded 140, compared to 122 the previous year. Despite this marginal rise, both towns remained within the moderate air quality range.
A senior official of the Pollution Control Board confirmed that the state’s overall air quality during Diwali 2025 remained “satisfactory” and reflected better compliance with pollution control norms. He credited public awareness, reduced use of firecrackers, and favorable weather conditions for the improvement.
The air quality index categories classify readings between 0 and 50 as “good”, 51 to 100 as “satisfactory”, 101 to 200 as “moderate”, 201 to 300 as “poor”, 301 to 400 as “very poor” and above 401 as “severe”.
