Delhi Chokes on Toxic Air Post-Diwali, AQI Hits Hazardous Levels
The air quality in New Delhi took a sharp downturn following the Diwali festivities, as the city woke up to a thick blanket of smog on October 21. Following the extensive use of firecrackers during the festival, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in parts of the capital soared to over 350, marking a “severe” level of pollution that is hazardous to health.
Diwali Fireworks: A Major Contributor to Pollution
The celebration of Diwali, a major Hindu festival, was accompanied by massive fireworks displays across the city, which significantly contributed to the worsening air quality. Despite a Supreme Court ruling allowing only the use of “green firecrackers”—which are designed to produce fewer emissions—many residents ignored these restrictions. As a result, the festive fireworks caused a surge in fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) and smoke, further exacerbating the seasonal pollution already present.
