Delhi’s Air Quality “Very Poor” on Diwali Morning, AQI at 330
The air quality in Delhi dipped into the “very poor” category on Diwali morning, October 31, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 330 at 9 a.m., and conditions are anticipated to worsen as celebrations continue throughout the evening.
A dense layer of smog enveloped the city, affecting visibility and raising health concerns. Anand Vihar, a major terminal in the city, recorded severe pollution levels.
Widespread Poor Air Quality
AQI readings from 38 monitoring stations across Delhi consistently fell within the “very poor” range, with the city’s 24-hour average AQI recorded at 307 the previous day. For context, AQI levels below 50 are classified as “good,” while readings between 301 and 400 fall under “very poor,” and any AQI above 450 is deemed “severe plus.”
Comparatively, Delhi’s AQI was slightly better in 2023, recording an AQI of 202 on the morning of Diwali. Historical data show that on Diwali in previous years, the AQI fluctuated significantly due to fireworks, stubble burning, and adverse weather conditions, reaching a high of 431 in 2016.
Crackdown on Firecrackers
In response to persistent pollution concerns, the Delhi government implemented a full ban on the production, sale, and use of firecrackers ahead of the festival. On Wednesday, Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced that 377 enforcement teams have been deployed across the city to ensure compliance. Police are also actively monitoring neighborhoods to prevent firecracker use, and violators could face legal action under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for breaching government orders.
Seasonal Pollution Challenges
Delhi’s air quality typically declines in winter due to a combination of factors, including emissions from vehicles, local industrial activity, stubble burning in neighboring states, and cooler temperatures that trap pollutants closer to the ground. Local authorities have coordinated with resident welfare and market associations to raise awareness about pollution’s impact, especially around Diwali.
