Delhi's Diwali Morning Smog: Air Quality Index Falls to ‘Very Poor’ Category

New Delhi: On Diwali morning, Delhi residents woke up to a heavy blanket of smog, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 328, categorized as "very poor" by the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). The persistent pollution has raised concerns among environmental experts and citizens alike as the city faces ongoing air quality challenges despite preventive measures.

AQI Levels Across Delhi NCR

Delhi’s AQI reading of 328 indicates a "very poor" level, as per SAFAR's real-time data. In some areas, however, air quality dipped even further. For example, Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 419, placing it in the "severe" category. Other regions such as Alipur, Ashok Vihar, Aya Nagar, and Dwarka also reported alarmingly high AQI levels, reinforcing the urgency for enhanced pollution controls.

AQI Scale:

• Good: 0–50
• Satisfactory: 51–100
• Moderate: 101–200
• Poor: 201–300
• Very Poor: 301–400
• Severe: 401–450

Stubble Burning and Weather Conditions

The deteriorating air quality in Delhi can be attributed to seasonal stubble burning in nearby states like Punjab and Haryana. According to Skymet Weather’s Mahesh Palawat, a recent shift in wind direction from south-southeast to northwesterly may bring smoke from these fires into Delhi, aggravating pollution levels. The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) warned that the AQI might reach the "severe" category if additional emissions from firecrackers add to the air pollution.

GRAP and Anti-Pollution Measures

In response to the poor air quality, Delhi authorities activated stage two of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) last week. The measures include:

• Ban on Firecrackers: 377 teams are actively enforcing a ban on firecrackers across Delhi to minimize pollution during Diwali celebrations.
• Traffic and Transport Adjustments: Increased public transport options, including additional buses and metro services, are available to reduce private vehicle use. Traffic personnel have been deployed at congestion points, and vehicle parking fees have been raised to discourage driving.
• Dust and Emission Controls: Dust control measures are being implemented at construction sites, while regular mechanical sweeping and water sprinkling are conducted on major roads to curb dust pollution. Additionally, restrictions on coal, firewood, and diesel generators are in place across the Delhi-NCR region.

Public Advisory

Citizens have been advised to limit personal vehicle use, use public transport where possible, and avoid dust-generating activities. The government has also suggested timely replacement of air filters in vehicles and urged residents to avoid the open burning of solid waste or bio-mass.

A Year-Over-Year Comparison

Interestingly, last Diwali, Delhi experienced a relatively moderate AQI of 218, the best in eight years. This improvement was attributed to favorable weather conditions, stricter firecracker bans, and fewer stubble burning incidents. However, this year’s conditions underscore the challenges posed by pollution sources, weather patterns, and seasonal celebrations.