A day after Diwali celebrations, Bengaluru’s air quality remained relatively clean, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 94, placing it in the ‘satisfactory’ category, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
While air quality dipped slightly compared to normal days, Bengaluru continues to outperform major metros such as Delhi and Mumbai, both of which recorded “very poor” AQI levels post-Diwali.
The CPCB categorizes air quality as follows:
- 0–50: Good
- 51–100: Satisfactory
- 101–200: Moderate
- 201–300: Poor
- 301–400: Very Poor
- 401–500: Severe
🌧️ IMD Issues Rain Alert for Bengaluru, Karnataka
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall for Bengaluru and adjoining districts starting Tuesday (October 21), which could further improve air quality in the coming days.
The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 30°C, while the minimum may stay close to 20°C, the IMD said in its latest bulletin.
A yellow alert has been issued for Bengaluru, valid till October 24, as the weather office expects intermittent rain and thunderstorms during the week.
“Widespread showers are expected across south-interior Karnataka. The wet spell will help clear lingering post-Diwali pollutants,” an IMD scientist said.
☔ Weekly Weather Forecast for Bengaluru
| Date | Forecast | Alert |
|---|---|---|
| October 21 (Tuesday) | Light rain likely; temperature: 30°C / 20°C | Yellow alert |
| October 22 (Wednesday) | Moderate rain expected; humidity to drop | Yellow alert |
| October 23 (Thursday) | Rain to continue; local waterlogging possible | Yellow alert |
| October 24 (Friday) | Scattered showers; likely traffic disruptions | Yellow alert |
The IMD has warned of possible traffic congestion and waterlogging in low-lying areas, urging commuters to plan their travel accordingly.
🌦️ Other Karnataka Districts on Alert
In addition to Bengaluru, the yellow alert has been extended to Hassan, Mysuru, Tumakuru, and Mandya districts until October 24.
“Heavy rainfall could lead to waterlogging in interior districts. Urban local bodies are advised to stay on alert,” the IMD bulletin added.
🌤️ Rain May Bring Relief, Cleaner Air
Meteorologists say the anticipated rainfall could bring significant relief from post-Diwali air pollution. The showers are expected to wash out suspended particles, improving air quality to the “good” range in parts of the city by Wednesday.
Residents have also reported a noticeable drop in smog and haze levels compared to northern Indian cities.
“Bengaluru continues to benefit from favorable wind and rain conditions. The AQI may improve further if rainfall continues for 48 hours,” said an environmental researcher from the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board.
📊 At a Glance: Bengaluru Post-Diwali Weather & AQI
| Parameter | Status |
|---|---|
| AQI (October 21, 2025) | 94 – Satisfactory |
| Temperature Range | Max 30°C / Min 20°C |
| Alert Type | Yellow (IMD) |
| Rain Forecast | Till October 24 |
| Districts on Alert | Bengaluru, Hassan, Mysuru, Tumakuru, Mandya |
