By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Delhi's air quality index has surged past 300, entering the "very poor" category as winter sets in and the Diwali festival approaches, raising health concerns for millions of residents.
Air quality reaches 'very poor' levels
The AQI, which measures fine particulate matter known as PM2.5, stood at 377 on Wednesday morning. Readings between 301 and 400 are classified as "very poor," while anything above 400 is considered "severe." The sharp deterioration follows an unusually clean October, with experts attributing the spike to falling temperatures, low wind speeds, and increased crop-residue burning in neighbouring Punjab and Haryana.
Emergency measures activated
Authorities have invoked Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), introducing stricter dust control, higher parking charges to discourage private vehicles, and additional public transport services. The Delhi Metro has added 20 extra weekday trips, and government office timings have been staggered to ease traffic congestion.
Diwali fireworks add to concerns
With Diwali just days away, officials fear fireworks could push pollution levels higher. Last year, a toxic haze blanketed the city the morning after the festival despite court directives for less-polluting firecrackers. Enforcing bans on conventional firecrackers has proven difficult.
Supreme Court allows green firecrackers with restrictions
On Monday, India's Supreme Court permitted the manufacture, sale, and use of certified green firecrackers in Delhi and surrounding areas for a limited period. They may be set off only between 6:00-7:00 am and 8:00-10:00 pm local time on 7 and 8 November. The court also banned fireworks within 300 metres of hospitals, care homes, schools, and other silence zones. Green firecrackers must carry QR codes for verification, though authorities acknowledge that conventional firecrackers continue to be sold as green alternatives.
Mumbai also records high pollution
The problem extends beyond the capital. Mumbai's AQI reached 322 on 24 October, placing it in the "very poor" category, driven by low winds, construction dust, garbage burning, and firecracker emissions. The city's air quality has since improved, recording an AQI of 89 on Wednesday, classified as "satisfactory."
