As festive lights begin to glow for Dhanteras across Delhi-NCR, the region’s air quality remains a major concern. With the Air Quality Index (AQI) hovering firmly in the ‘poor’ range, health experts warn that the pollution levels ahead of Diwali could reach even more alarming levels.
Persistent AQI troubles as celebrations begin
On Saturday morning, key monitoring stations across Delhi logged AQI readings above 250, firmly placing the air quality in the ‘poor’ category ahead of the Dhanteras celebrations. In areas such as Anand Vihar, the AQI even climbed into the ‘very poor’ zone, registering around 384 according to latest data, as per a Hindustan Times report. Clear skies and higher-than-expected temperatures have failed to clear the air; instead, weak winds and continued vehicle emissions are locking in pollutants.
With the festival of lights on the horizon, experts are sounding alarms that pollution could worsen. The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) warns that pollutant levels may climb further by Diwali due to weak wind conditions and firecracker burstings adding to the load, according to a Times of India report. Pulmonologists say even people without prior respiratory issues could feel discomfort, as particulate matter rises and visibility drops.
Meanwhile, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has already activated Stage I of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the region, restricting activities like construction and demolition to curb further pollution.
Caution: Consider limiting outdoor activities, especially for children and older adults, and use N95 masks if stepping out during peak pollution hours.
