The morning after Diwali turned grim for Delhi residents as thick smog blanketed the city and pollution levels soared to dangerous highs. The Air Quality Index (AQI) touched a staggering 417 at Anand Vihar, placing the capital in the “severe” category, according to real-time data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Officials have attributed the sharp rise in pollution to a deadly mix of Diwali fireworks, stagnant wind conditions, and temperature inversion that trapped pollutants near the surface. The worsening air quality prompted authorities to escalate anti-pollution measures under the Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Sunday evening. Stage I restrictions had already been in place since October 14.
By Monday morning, several parts of Delhi-NCR recorded hazardous readings — New Delhi (367), Ghaziabad’s Vijay Nagar (348), Noida (341), Noida Sector 1 (344), and Gurugram (283). Out of 38 monitoring stations in the capital, 24 registered air quality in the “very poor” range, including Wazirpur (364), Vivek Vihar (351), Dwarka (335), and RK Puram (323).
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has directed all civic and enforcement agencies to intensify dust control measures, curb garbage burning, and keep a strict watch on construction sites flouting environmental norms.
Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) warn that air quality could deteriorate further through the week, with limited wind movement and rising humidity preventing pollutant dispersion. Temperatures are expected to range between 21°C and 33°C, offering little relief.
In an appeal to citizens, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta urged residents to act responsibly. “Please celebrate Diwali with green crackers and follow the Supreme Court’s guidelines. Let us enjoy the festival with diyas, rangoli, and sweets — not with smoke and smog,” she said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
The Supreme Court had earlier permitted the use of green firecrackers only during restricted hours — 6:00 am to 7:00 am and 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm — with sales allowed from October 18 to 20. CM Gupta also referenced the recently held “Divya Deepotsav” at Kartavya Path, where 1.51 lakh diyas were lit and a Ramayana-themed drone show was organised to promote eco-friendly celebrations.
Despite years of regulation and awareness drives, Delhi’s battle against post-Diwali smog continues to challenge policymakers. Last year, the city recorded an AQI peak of 806, among the worst globally, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable celebration practices and long-term air quality solutions.
