Delhi air quality reaches very poor category on Diwali Sunday
The city's average Air Quality Index settled at 376 on Sunday as smog reduced visibility across the capital.
Delhi's air quality was in the 'very poor' category on Sunday, according to reports by Hindustan Times and WION. The city's average Air Quality Index (AQI) for the day was 376, up from 369 on Saturday. A thick layer of smog enveloped the capital, reducing visibility.
Of the 59 monitoring stations recording data on Sunday, 12 to 19 stations reported 'severe' air quality. Jahangirpuri recorded the worst levels, with AQI figures reported between 417 and 463. The predominant pollutant was PM2.5, with firecracker emissions contributing to particulate matter levels.
The Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS) forecast that air quality could turn 'severe' on Monday. This deterioration is expected due to Diwali celebrations, vehicular emissions, and the peak stubble-burning season in neighbouring states. Experts also cited unfavourable meteorological conditions, including low wind speeds, as factors preventing pollutant dispersion.
To manage winter pollution, the Delhi government implemented Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Friday. Under these rules, non-essential construction and demolition activities are banned, and certain petrol and diesel four-wheelers are restricted from plying. Additionally, government offices in the Delhi-NCR region have been asked to operate with 50 per cent of staff, while the rest work from home.