Delhi AQI Turns Severe After Diwali, Cities Choke
Delhi’s air quality deteriorated sharply after Diwali celebrations on Sunday, November 8, with several neighbourhoods recording ‘severe’ pollution levels on Monday morning. A thick layer of smog engulfed the national capital, while elevated Air Quality Index (AQI) readings were reported across several major Indian cities.
Delhi AQI Crosses 400 After Diwali Celebrations
According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, Delhi’s overall AQI stood at approximately 370 on Monday morning, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category, while several monitoring stations recorded severe pollution.
Burari Crossing reported an AQI of 441, followed by Jahangirpuri and other northern Delhi neighbourhoods exceeding 400. Fifteen monitoring stations recorded severe air quality.
Under CPCB standards, readings between 301 and 400 indicate very poor air quality, while those between 401 and 500 are classified as severe.
Air Pollution Rises Across Major Indian Cities
Pollution levels also increased in neighbouring cities, with Ghaziabad recording an AQI of 366, Noida 340, Gurugram 316 and Faridabad 334.
Beyond Delhi-NCR, Gwalior reported an AQI of 340, while Lucknow registered 246 and Indore 238. Chennai recorded 208, placing these three cities in the poor category.
Firecracker emissions, vehicular pollution, construction dust and unfavourable weather conditions contributed to deteriorating air quality across several urban centres.
GRAP Stage III Restrictions Continue in Delhi-NCR
Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan remained operational across Delhi-NCR following their implementation on November 6.
The measures include restrictions on non-essential construction activities, tighter vehicle controls and hybrid classes for primary school students.
The Supreme Court had permitted certified green firecrackers during specified hours over the Diwali weekend. However, fireworks continued beyond permitted hours in several areas.
Pollution forecasts indicated that Delhi’s air quality could deteriorate further as low wind speeds and cooler temperatures restrict the dispersal of pollutants.
