Air pollution during Diwali increases by four to five times compared to normal levels, according to the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). During this period, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata reaches between 300 and 500, falling into the serious category.

Expert recommendations on protection

Dr Sandeep Katiyar, senior consultant in pulmonology at Apollo Spectra Hospital in Kanpur, states that wearing an N95 or N99 mask is a better option to protect against pollution and fine toxic particles from firecrackers.

Impact of indoor plants on air quality

Placing plants such as tulsi, money plant, or aloe vera in homes does not completely eliminate indoor pollution. However, the effect of these plants on improving air quality is very low, making it unclear how effective they are.