Diwali 2026 Vs Diwali 2025: AQI Improves in 17 of 34 Rajasthan Cities
Dausa recorded the highest improvement of 44.4%, followed by Bhilwara with a reduction of 43.5%
UdaipurTimes, Nov 11, 2026 - In line with its commitment to environmental protection and pollution control, the Rajasthan State Pollution Control Board (RSPCB) conducted extensive monitoring of ambient air quality and noise pollution across the State during Diwali, as per an official press release.
According to RSPCB data, the Air Quality Index (AQI) declined in 17 out of 34 cities on Diwali this year compared to the previous year. Several cities also recorded positive improvements in noise pollution levels.
Air Quality
RSPCB member Secretary Kapil Chandrawal said that ambient air quality is being monitored round the clock through 50 Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations established across 37 districts of the State.
According to the data recorded on Diwali, November 8, Dausa registered the State's lowest AQI at 124, while Khairthal recorded the highest AQI at 362. Compared to last year, this year’s Diwali recorded lower AQI levels in 17 out of 34 cities. Dausa recorded the highest improvement of 44.4%, followed by Bhilwara with a reduction of 43.5%.
Noise Pollution
The Board conducted a comparative assessment of noise pollution levels at 58 locations across 25 districts, seven days before Diwali and on the festival day. According to the findings, noise pollution declined in 12 cities during daytime and 13 cities during night-time compared to the previous year.
Banswara recorded a significant improvement, with noise pollution levels declining by 25.4% during the day and 38.6% at night. This indicates positive progress towards controlling noise pollution. However, some cities also witnessed an increase in noise pollution.
During day-time, Jhunjhunu recorded a rise of 16.6%, while at night, Bhiwadi registered an increase of 8.2%. The highest day-time noise level was recorded in Jhunjhunu at 84.1 dB(A), while Ajmer recorded the highest night-time level at 86.0 dB(A).
A comparative study conducted at eight locations in Jaipur revealed that Raja Park recorded the highest reduction of 14.3% in daytime noise pollution levels. Similarly, Mansarovar registered a 3.7% decline in noise pollution during night-time. However, day-time noise pollution increased by 9.3% in both Sitapura and Mansarovar, while Sitapura recorded an 8.7% rise at night.
The highest day-time noise level in Jaipur was recorded in Mansarovar at 86.6 dB(A), while Raja Park registered the highest night-time level at 91.4 dB(A).
To ensure a comprehensive assessment of environmental protection measures and pollution levels, a special monitoring campaign is being conducted in six NCR cities of Rajasthan — Alwar, Bhiwadi, Khairthal, Bharatpur, Deeg and Kotputli — from November 2 to 30, 2026. The campaign is being carried out in compliance with the directions of the Supreme Court and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and includes monitoring ambient air quality as well as collecting and testing water and soil samples.
