After Diwali, Delhi's air quality stays in 'Severe' category, with rain still eluding the city

After Diwali, Delhi grapples with a resurgence of severe air quality conditions, undoing the recent relief brought by rain. The city is shrouded in toxic smog, impairing visibility and posing health risks across age groups.

Despite ongoing violations of a court ban, fireworks, alongside stubble burning and vehicular emissions, contribute to the pollution. The Central Pollution Control Board reports 'severe' AQI levels in key areas like RK Puram, Anand Vihar, IGI airport, Narela, and Punjabi Bagh.

AQI categorizations range from 'good' to 'severe,' with levels exceeding 400 impacting both healthy individuals and those with pre-existing conditions.



The absence of rain since Diwali exacerbates the situation, compounding the effects of firecracker emissions and stubble burning. Delhi's annual struggle with deteriorating air quality intensifies ahead of winter, trapping pollutants from various sources like vehicles, industries, construction dust, and agricultural practices.



The city witnessed a week-long episode of severe pollution levels since October 28, prompting government measures such as school closures and diesel truck bans. While rain briefly alleviated the situation, the positive impact was short-lived, as Diwali fireworks and continued stubble burning reversed the progress."