Delhi’s Diwali Dawns Under Toxic Smog as AQI Turns ‘Very Poor’
Delhi welcomed Diwali with fireworks and festivities, but the morning after revealed a harsh reality—thick smog and ‘very poor’ air quality (AQI 300+). Despite Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), pollution levels spiked, triggering health concerns. Key areas like Anand Vihar and RK Puram recorded AQI above 350, nearing ‘severe’ levels.
Why Delhi’s Air Quality Worsened During Diwali
The toxic haze resulted from a deadly mix:
– Firecrackers: Despite bans, illegal bursting continued.
– Vehicular Emissions: High traffic during festivities added to pollution.
– Stubble Burning: Over 1,200 farm fires in Punjab-Haryana contributed 15% of PM2.5.
– Weather: Low wind speed trapped pollutants over the city.
GRAP-2 Measures: Did They Help?
Under GRAP-2, authorities:
✔ Banned diesel generators in Delhi-NCR.
✔ Increased checks on waste burning and dust control.
❌ Failed to fully enforce firecracker bans, per ground reports.
Expert Take:
“GRAP-2 is a temporary fix. Without stricter penalties and long-term policies, Delhi’s air won’t improve,” says Dr. Anumita Roychowdhury (CSE).
Health Risks: Who’s Most Vulnerable?
Doctors warn:
– Children, elderly, and asthma patients should stay indoors.
– PM2.5 exposure can worsen lung disease, trigger heart issues.
– 30% rise in respiratory cases post-Diwali every year.
Advice: Use N95 masks, limit outdoor time, monitor AQI hourly.
AQI Forecast: Will Delhi’s Air Improve?
- Next 48 hrs: Slight improvement expected with light winds (IMD).
- If AQI crosses 400: GRAP-3 may kick in (construction ban, BS-III/IV vehicles barred).
Live AQI Check: Delhi’s Worst-Hit Areas
Track real-time pollution on SAFAR-India or CPCB:
📍 Anand Vihar: 367 (Very Poor)
📍 Dwarka: 342 (Very Poor)
📍 ITO: 354 (Very Poor)
The Way Forward
While GRAP offers short-term relief, long-term solutions are critical:
✓ Stricter firecracker bans with penalties.
✓ Year-round emission controls for vehicles, industries.
✓ Regional cooperation to curb stubble burning.
Bottom Line: Delhi’s pollution crisis needs urgent action—festive joy shouldn’t come at the cost of breathable air.
