Delhi’s Air Quality Plummets to Alarming Levels Amid Diwali Celebrations

New Delhi’s Air Quality Deteriorates Amid Diwali Celebrations

Citywide firecracker ban ignored, leading to an alarming AQI spike to 359

On Friday morning, air quality in New Delhi plummeted to hazardous levels as residents violated a citywide firecracker ban during Diwali festivities. The Air Quality Index (AQI) surged to 359, classified as “very poor,” up from 328 on Diwali morning.

The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) reported that thick smoke and noise pollution persisted well into the night as celebrations continued. Monitoring stations, including Anand Vihar and RK Puram, recorded AQI levels approaching dangerous thresholds, with readings of 395 and 394, respectively. Other areas, such as Burari Crossing, Sonia Vihar, and Punjabi Bagh, reported AQI levels exceeding 380. According to the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) in Pune, the poor air quality is expected to persist in the “very poor” range (AQI 300-400) throughout the day.

Ahead of Diwali, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai set up 377 enforcement teams to ensure compliance with the firecracker ban. The Delhi Police also established district-specific task forces to curb the use of firecrackers, but these efforts were largely disregarded by the public.

The situation is further complicated by stubble burning in neighboring states like Haryana and Punjab, a post-harvest activity that significantly contributes to Delhi’s smog. Authorities had previously initiated the second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to combat escalating pollution levels.

As the air quality crisis deepens, both residents and environmental advocates are urging the government to strengthen pollution-control measures to safeguard public health and alleviate respiratory issues.

Follow us on our social media platforms here: Twitter  WHATSAPP CHANNEL FACEBOOK PAGE