Delhi: Delhi’s air pollution levels have climbed into the ‘very poor’ category ahead of Diwali, prompting authorities to intensify emergency measures as concerns grow over the impact of fireworks on an already polluted atmosphere.
According to a BBC report, the capital recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 377 on Wednesday, November 4, crossing the threshold of 300. The deterioration has raised health concerns, particularly for children, elderly people and those suffering from respiratory conditions.
The Delhi government has activated Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), introducing stricter measures to control pollution. These include intensified road cleaning, higher parking fees, additional public transport services and staggered timings for government offices. The Delhi Metro has also added 20 weekday train services to reduce dependence on private vehicles.
The worsening conditions come days before Diwali, when firecracker emissions could further increase particulate pollution. The Supreme Court has permitted certified green firecrackers in Delhi and adjoining areas on November 7 and 8, but restricted their use to 6–7 am and 8–10 pm. Fireworks are also prohibited within 300 metres of hospitals, schools, care homes and designated silence zones.
The court has directed police to inspect QR codes on firecracker packaging and seize unauthorised products to prevent conventional crackers from being sold as green alternatives.
Weather conditions, including falling temperatures and weak winds, along with crop-residue burning in Punjab and Haryana, have contributed to the latest spike.
Mumbai has also experienced pollution episodes, with its AQI touching 322 on October 24. However, conditions improved by Wednesday, when the city recorded an AQI of 89.
