Delhi air quality enters very poor category ahead of Diwali
Pollution levels in the national capital rose sharply as stubble burning and changing wind patterns affected air quality.
Delhi's air quality deteriorated to the 'very poor' category on Monday, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 331 by Tuesday morning, according to reports by ThePrint and India TV. While the city-wide index remains in the 'very poor' zone, several areas recorded 'severe' levels, including Jahangirpuri at 499, Rohini at 431, and Bawana at 408.
The decline follows a period of cleaner air after the cyclonic storm Arnab hit the Andhra Pradesh and Odisha coasts. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) scientists explained that the cyclone brought rain and winds that dispersed pollutants, but as the storm cleared, winds switched back to the northwest, carrying smoke from Punjab and Haryana.
A senior CPCB official said that because recent rain prevented many farmers from harvesting in October, they will now rush to do so, leading to an accumulation of stubble fires. Punjab government data showed that on 31 October, the state recorded 194 stubble fires in a single day, bringing the seasonal total to about 1,007.
Other factors contributing to the spike include falling temperatures and low wind speeds, which trap pollution particles closer to the ground. Experts noted that if intense cracker bursting occurs during Diwali, the situation could worsen.
In response to the rising pollution, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has imposed stage two of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Under GRAP-2, authorities must intensify dust and vehicular management, including mechanical road sweeping, water sprinkling, and the use of anti-smog guns.
The Supreme Court has permitted the use of certified green crackers only on 7 November and 8 November, noting that a complete ban on cracker bursting will be restored from 9 November.