NEW DELHI: Two days after Diwali, the air quality in Delhi has sharply declined, with a thick layer of smog enveloping the city. On Wednesday morning, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 345, categorised as ‘very poor’. Some areas, including Ashok Vihar, Bawana, and Dilshad Garden, recorded even higher levels, reaching around 380 at 6:15 AM.

The situation worsened on Tuesday, when several monitoring stations reported AQI levels exceeding 500, indicating ‘severe’ pollution. The 24-hour average AQI for Tuesday was recorded at 351, up from 345 on Monday. The Supreme Court had recently allowed the sale and use of green firecrackers during specific hours, but many residents violated these guidelines, contributing to the pollution spike.

The CPCB categorises AQI levels as follows: ‘good’ (0–50), ‘satisfactory’ (51–100), ‘moderate’ (101–200), ‘poor’ (201–300), ‘very poor’ (301–400), and ‘severe’ (401–500). Currently, 34 out of 38 monitoring stations in Delhi are in the red zone, indicating poor air quality.

Authorities have warned that air quality may deteriorate further, prompting the implementation of Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR. This plan includes stricter measures such as a ban on diesel generators, enhanced dust suppression, and increased monitoring of pollution hotspots.

Residents have reported health issues, including breathing difficulties and eye irritation. A local resident, Sagar, expressed concern, stating, “Pollution hasn’t just increased today; it’s been rising for years.” Health experts are advising vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, to limit outdoor activities and wear masks.

As the city grapples with this environmental crisis, the need for effective measures to combat air pollution has become increasingly urgent. The combination of firecracker emissions and stubble burning from neighbouring states continues to pose a significant challenge to air quality in the capital.