Delhi Air Quality Remains ‘Severe’ for Third Day, Post-Diwali Smog Persists

Delhi's air quality remains hazardous with multiple areas recording "severe" AQI levels. Calm winds and post-Diwali smog contribute to sustained pollution. The Supreme Court has questioned firecracker ban enforcement, while the Delhi government plans to review winter pollution control measures as vehicular emissions persist as a leading pollutant.

Delhi continues to grapple with hazardous air pollution levels, as the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) remains in the "severe" category for the third consecutive day. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), areas like Ashok Vihar, Jahangirpuri, Mundka, Dwarka, and Najafgarh recorded AQI levels above 400, indicating extreme levels of pollution. In Anand Vihar, AQI reached 448 for PM10 particles by 10 am on Tuesday, showing the intensity of air toxicity. The overall 24-hour AQI recorded in the city was 381 on Monday.

Experts suggest that pollution levels are rising due to calm winds, which prevent pollutants from dispersing. Despite some initial improvement due to favorable winds after Diwali, pollution surged again on Sunday, creating a lingering smog across the city.

The Supreme Court has raised concerns about Delhi’s air quality, especially in light of the poor enforcement of the firecracker ban during Diwali. It has requested a report from the Delhi government on steps taken to implement the ban and address violations. In response, Delhi's Environment Minister Gopal Rai is set to review pollution control measures as part of the city's winter action plan.

Pollutants such as PM2.5, which can cause severe respiratory issues, are the primary contributors to Delhi’s pollution crisis. According to data from the Decision Support System for Air Quality Management, vehicular emissions were responsible for 12.5% of the pollution on Monday, with a projected steady contribution in the coming days.

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With weather experts predicting stagnant air and no significant western disturbance, the pollution levels are likely to remain high or worsen, adding to the health risks for Delhi’s residents.