Delhi’s Air Quality Plummets to ‘Very Poor’ After Diwali Celebrations
The post-Diwali haze has returned to Delhi, with the capital’s air quality index (AQI) plunging to ‘very poor’ levels (300+). Despite firecracker bans and awareness campaigns, toxic smog engulfed the city, triggering health alerts for vulnerable groups. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported alarming AQI spikes, blaming firecrackers, stubble burning, and unfavorable weather.
Why Did Delhi’s Air Turn Toxic After Diwali?
Delhi’s annual post-Diwali pollution crisis stems from multiple factors:
- Firecracker Emissions – Illegal bursting of crackers released PM2.5 and PM10 particles, worsening air quality.
- Stubble Burning – Over 1,000 farm fires in Punjab and Haryana contributed 25-30% of Delhi’s pollution.
- Weather Conditions – Low wind speed and winter inversion trapped pollutants, creating a smog blanket.
Delhi’s Top 5 Most Polluted Areas Today (AQI Data)
As per CPCB, these are the worst-affected zones:
1. Anand Vihar (AQI 387) – Heavy traffic and construction dust.
2. Wazirpur (AQI 372) – Industrial emissions + traffic congestion.
3. Bawana (AQI 364) – Biomass burning and factory pollution.
4. ITO (AQI 355) – Vehicular emissions + infrastructure projects.
5. Punjabi Bagh (AQI 348) – Local waste burning + traffic.
Areas like RK Puram and Dwarka also recorded ‘very poor’ AQI (300-400), while Lodhi Road fared slightly better (200-300).
Health Advisory: Protect Yourself from Toxic Air
Doctors recommend:
✅ Avoid outdoor workouts, especially in mornings.
✅ Wear N95 masks outdoors.
✅ Use air purifiers at home; keep windows shut.
✅ Hydrate well and eat vitamin-rich foods.
❌ Avoid indoor smoking/burning candles.
Government Steps to Combat Pollution
- GRAP reactivated; construction banned in hotspots.
- Odd-Even scheme may return if AQI worsens.
- Smog towers and water sprinklers deployed.
- Supreme Court monitoring stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana.
Will Delhi’s Air Improve Soon?
Forecasts suggest ‘very poor’ to ‘severe’ AQI for weeks. Wind dispersal may offer minor relief, but long-term solutions like cleaner fuels and better public transport are crucial.
How’s the air in your area? Share updates in the comments!
