Delhi air quality reaches very poor category on Diwali
The capital recorded an average AQI of 376 on Sunday as smog reduced visibility across the city.
Delhi's air quality settled 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, an increase from 369 recorded on Saturday.
Of the 59 monitoring stations reporting data, 12 to 19 recorded 'severe' air quality, while 22 to 33 stations recorded 'very poor' levels. Jahangirpuri recorded the highest AQI, with readings between 417 and 463.
The deterioration is attributed to Diwali celebrations, vehicular emissions, and stubble burning in neighbouring states. Experts also noted that low wind speeds and unfavourable meteorological conditions are preventing the dispersion of pollutants.
The transport sector was identified by the Decision Support System for Delhi as a major contributor, accounting for 19 per cent of pollution on Sunday. Stubble burning contributed 3.5 per cent.
To manage the pollution, the Delhi government implemented Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Friday. This includes bans on non-essential construction and the movement of certain petrol and diesel four-wheelers.
The Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS) forecast that air quality could remain in the 'severe' category for several days starting November 9.