The aftermath of Diwali leaves Delhi engulfed in a toxic haze as residents wake up to smoky skies, defying firecracker bans and exacerbating the city’s persistent air quality crisis.
Despite a government-imposed early winter break for schools and a ban on fireworks due to heightened pollution levels, Delhi’s air quality has been deteriorating for weeks.
Vehicular emissions, dust, and the seasonal burning of crop stubble in neighboring states contribute to the city’s perennial pollution woes.
On Monday morning, the Air Quality Index (AQI) registered above 200 across 37 monitoring stations in Delhi, with several readings surpassing 350, according to the Sameer app.
The AQI measures PM 2.5 levels, fine particulate matter known to cause respiratory issues and other health problems.
Levels between 101 and 200 are considered moderate, while those between 201 and 300 are categorized as poor. Readings above 300 fall into the “very poor” category, and anything over 500 is deemed “severe.”
Prolonged exposure to high pollution levels can lead to discomfort and breathing difficulties. India’s Supreme Court has imposed a ban on conventional firecrackers during Diwali, permitting only “green crackers” with reduced emissions.
However, enforcement of the ban remains a challenge.
The ban on fireworks has stirred political controversy, with Delhi’s environment minister, Gopal Rai, accusing leaders from the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of encouraging firecracker use. Rai alleges that BJP leaders “incited” people to light firecrackers, contributing to increased pollution levels.
The poor air quality on Monday follows a brief respite over the weekend due to rain.
As Delhi grapples with the post-Diwali pollution surge, concerns over respiratory health and environmental impact continue to escalate.