Lucknow’s AQI worsened ahead of Diwali, jumping from 77 to 223 amid traffic, congestion and dust; diversions planned as firecracker fears grow. Lucknow AQI rose from 77 to 223 in two days before Diwali as traffic, dust and congestion worsened air pollution across the city. Lucknow: The bursting of firecrackers during Diwali celebrations engulfed Lucknow in toxic air. During the live monitoring of air pollution levels, the PM 2.