Delhi Chokes on Post-Diwali Smog as Air Quality Dips to ‘Very Poor’ Levels

New Delhi, October 22 (Daily Kiran): A thick layer of smog blanketed the national capital on Wednesday morning, as Delhi’s air quality plunged to “very poor” levels following Diwali celebrations. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 345 at 5:30 a.m., indicating a severe deterioration in air quality.

Despite a Supreme Court ban on firecrackers, several parts of Delhi and the NCR witnessed widespread violations on Diwali night, resulting in dangerously high pollution levels. Many monitoring stations recorded AQI readings exceeding 500, which falls under the “severe” category.

The 24-hour average AQI for Tuesday was 351, a sharp increase from 345 recorded on Monday.

Persistent Winter Pollution Pattern

The spike in air pollution comes as no surprise. Delhi’s air quality typically worsens during the post-monsoon and winter months due to a combination of low wind speeds, firecracker emissions, and stubble burning in neighbouring states such as Punjab and Haryana. These factors together create a toxic haze that traps pollutants close to the ground.

Authorities Mull Emergency Measures

Officials from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) are reportedly considering activating Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to combat the worsening situation.

Under GRAP-II, authorities are expected to enforce:

• A ban on diesel generators (except for essential services)

• Stricter controls on construction and demolition activities

• Enhanced dust suppression measures

• Deployment of special task forces in pollution hotspots to regulate traffic and vehicular emissions

One of the Most Polluted Diwalis in Recent Years

CPCB data over the past four years shows that Diwali 2025 ranks among the most polluting in recent memory, reinforcing the recurring link between firecracker use and dangerous air quality dips.

Health Impact

The average concentration of PM2.5 — the most harmful pollutant — surged to 488 µg/m³ post-Diwali, nearly eight times higher than the safe limit prescribed by the World Health Organization (WHO). Hospitals across the city reported an increase in cases of respiratory distress, eye irritation, throat infections, flu-like symptoms, and even joint pain.

Health Advisory

Doctors and environmental experts have urged residents — especially children, the elderly, and people with asthma or chronic lung disease — to stay indoors, avoid morning walks, and use N95 or surgical masks if stepping out.

As Delhi continues to battle its recurring air quality crisis, the worsening post-Diwali smog serves as another grim reminder of the urgent need for sustainable celebrations and stricter environmental enforcement.