Diwali, the festival of lights, is associated with a distinct seasonal rise in air pollution across Indian cities due to the widespread use of fireworks, increased vehicular movement, and unfavourable meteorological conditions. Delhi, already burdened by high particulate pollution levels, experiences one of the most significant surges in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations during this period.

Meteorological parameters, particularly temperature, strongly influence the accumulation and dispersion of airborne pollutants. Cooler nights and calm wind conditions during early winter months often lead to temperature inversion, restricting vertical air mixing and trapping pollutants near the surface.

Evaluating hourly changes in PM2.5 and temperature patterns before, during, and afte

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