New Delhi: Two days after Diwali celebrations, Delhi woke up on Wednesday to a thick layer of smog, with air quality dipping sharply to the ‘very poor’ category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 345, marking a significant rise from Sunday’s 326.

Several areas record ‘severe’ pollution levels

Some localities experienced even worse air conditions early in the morning. AQI levels touched 380 in Ashok Vihar, Bawana, and Dilshad Garden, while other parts, including DTU, IGI Airport, and Lodhi Road, recorded values below 300, falling in the ‘poor’ category.

On Tuesday, four key stations — Dwarka (417), Wazirpur (423), Anand Vihar (404), and Ashok Vihar (404) — had already entered the ‘severe’ category, as per CPCB’s SAMEER app data.

Pollution sources and forecasts

Authorities have warned that the air quality may deteriorate further in the coming days. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage II has been implemented across Delhi-NCR, following forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).

Data from the Decision Support System (DSS) showed that transport emissions contributed 15.6% of Delhi’s air pollution on Monday, while industries and other sources accounted for 23.3%.

Citizens feel the impact

The toxic air has led to widespread health complaints, including breathing difficulties and eye irritation.
“Pollution hasn’t just increased today; it’s been rising for years,” said Sagar, a local resident. “Everyone blames politicians, but people themselves are responsible. Firecrackers are a choice — and then people complain about the government not doing anything.”

Visuals from Tuesday morning showed Akshardham Temple and other landmarks partially obscured by dense haze, underscoring the city’s persistent pollution problem.

Limited relief from green firecracker rule

The Supreme Court had recently allowed the sale and bursting of green firecrackers in Delhi-NCR — restricted to 6 am–7 pm and 8 pm–10 pm on Diwali eve and the festival day. However, despite these curbs, pollution levels surged significantly post-festival night.

Authorities on alert

The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has urged residents to limit outdoor activities, particularly early morning walks and evening commutes. Health experts have advised wearing N95 masks outdoors and using air purifiers indoors to reduce exposure.

Environmentalists have reiterated the need for long-term measures, including stricter vehicular emission control, improved waste management, and stronger enforcement against crop residue burning in neighbouring states.

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