Delhi’s air quality has plummeted into hazardous levels on Diwali morning, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 328, marking it as “very poor” despite strict anti-pollution efforts. Key areas such as Anand Vihar, Alipur, Ashok Vihar, and Dwarka are experiencing AQI levels between “very poor” and “severe,” prompting warnings from experts that conditions could worsen due to firecracker emissions combined with stubble burning smoke.
To address the escalating pollution, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai has deployed 377 teams to enforce a firecracker ban across the city. Stage two of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is also in effect, placing restrictions on coal, firewood, and diesel generator usage, while implementing additional measures like mechanical street sweeping, dust control, and increased public transportation options.
Weather expert Mahesh Palawat from Skymet Weather Services explained that the rise in pollution levels is partly due to smoke from stubble burning carried by northwesterly winds. Last Diwali, Delhi recorded its best air quality in eight years with an AQI of 218. Residents are advised to rely on public transport, minimize personal vehicle use, replace air filters, and avoid activities that generate dust to help combat the worsening air quality.
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