Delhi Air Quality Deteriorates on Diwali Morning

As the festival of Diwali approaches, the air quality in Delhi has taken a turn for the worse. On the morning of Diwali, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a concerning level of 330 at 9 AM, indicating that the air quality is classified as 'very poor'. This alarming situation is expected to worsen as the day progresses and celebrations begin, leading to increased pollution levels.

Residents of Delhi woke up to a gloomy sky, heavily covered in smog. The area of Anand Vihar, a significant transport hub, reported particularly high pollution levels, with the AQI falling into the 'severe' category. In fact, thirty-eight monitoring stations across the city indicated that the air quality was in the 'very poor' range. Just the day before, the 24-hour average AQI was recorded at 307, highlighting a troubling trend.

To put this into perspective, the AQI scale categorizes air quality as follows: an AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 to 100 is 'satisfactory', 101 to 200 is 'moderate', 201 to 300 is 'poor', 301 to 400 is 'very poor', and anything above 400 is classified as 'severe'. In comparison, last year, Delhi experienced a slightly better AQI of 218 on Diwali, while in previous years, the numbers were even more alarming, with readings of 382 in 2021 and 431 in 2016.

Interestingly, the improvement in air quality last year can be attributed to a decrease in stubble-burning incidents, along with timely rainfall and favorable weather conditions. These factors helped prevent the national capital from becoming a gas chamber post-Diwali. In a proactive move, the Delhi government has implemented a comprehensive ban on the manufacture, storage, sale, and use of firecrackers, aiming to mitigate the pollution crisis.

To enforce this ban, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced the formation of 377 teams dedicated to monitoring and ensuring compliance across the city. This initiative reflects the government's commitment to improving air quality and protecting the health of its citizens.

As the festivities unfold, it is crucial for residents to remain aware of the air quality and take necessary precautions. Wearing masks, limiting outdoor activities, and staying informed about pollution levels can help individuals protect their health during this festive season. The situation serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against air pollution in urban areas, emphasizing the need for collective action and responsible behavior to ensure a healthier environment for all.