APPCB Intensifies Efforts to Combat Air and Noise Pollution Statewide

The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) has announced a comprehensive strategy to tackle air and noise pollution across the state, particularly in light of the upcoming Deepavali celebrations. In a directive issued on November 5, 2026, the APPCB has mandated that district administrations, police, transport, and municipal authorities collaborate to enforce environmental regulations and monitor pollution levels. This initiative comes after alarming pollution metrics recorded during Deepavali 2025, where PM10 levels reached 238 micrograms per cubic meter and PM2.5 levels hit 138 micrograms per cubic meter in Visakhapatnam.

The APPCB's communication specifically targets Collectors, Magistrates, Superintendents of Police, Municipal Commissioners, and Police Commissioners in key urban areas, including Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam. The Board has called for the formation of joint inspection teams to oversee the sale, transportation, and use of firecrackers, which are known to significantly contribute to air pollution.

In its ongoing efforts to safeguard public health, the APPCB has emphasized the importance of monitoring air quality and noise levels in all district headquarters and towns. This directive follows earlier orders issued on October 16, which aimed to prepare local authorities for the anticipated surge in pollution during the festival season. The APPCB has urged officials to conduct regular inspections and report findings to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

The Board's proactive approach includes the use of advanced monitoring technologies to assess air quality in real-time. Officials are expected to utilize air quality monitoring stations strategically placed throughout urban areas to gather data on pollutants and noise levels. This data will be crucial for implementing timely interventions and informing the public about air quality conditions.

As part of its pollution control measures, the APPCB has reiterated that only green crackers, which have been approved by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), will be allowed in cities and towns where air quality is deemed moderate or better. Conventional firecrackers containing harmful chemicals, such as barium salts, are strictly prohibited. This regulation aims to mitigate the adverse effects of firecracker emissions on air quality.

To ensure compliance, the APPCB has mandated that all permitted firecracker packs must carry unique QR codes linked to their registration, licenses, and test certificates. This measure is designed to prevent the sale of illegal and unregulated firecrackers, which pose a significant risk to both public health and the environment.

Recognizing the importance of community involvement in pollution control efforts, the APPCB is also launching a public awareness campaign aimed at educating citizens about the environmental impacts of firecrackers and the importance of adhering to pollution control regulations. The campaign will utilize various media platforms to disseminate information and encourage responsible behavior during the festive season.

Local schools, community organizations, and environmental groups are being enlisted to participate in this initiative, fostering a collective responsibility towards maintaining air quality and reducing noise pollution. The APPCB believes that by engaging the community, it can create a more sustainable and health-conscious environment during Deepavali and beyond.

The APPCB's intensified measures reflect a growing recognition of the need for sustainable practices in urban planning and public health policy. As air quality continues to decline in many urban areas, the Board's proactive stance is crucial in setting a precedent for future environmental regulations. The success of these measures during Deepavali will serve as a benchmark for future pollution control strategies in Andhra Pradesh.

In conclusion, the APPCB's comprehensive approach to curbing air and noise pollution, particularly during the festive season, highlights the critical intersection of public health, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. With the implementation of strict regulations and a focus on public awareness, the Board aims to foster a cleaner and healthier environment for all citizens.