Delhi air quality nears 400 mark on Diwali morning
Air quality in the capital entered the severe category at several monitoring stations as pollution levels worsened during the festival.
Air quality in Delhi neared an AQI of 400 on Diwali morning, with several monitoring stations crossing into the severe category, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data cited by Urban Acres.
The city's average AQI on Saturday was recorded between 364 and 369, placing the capital in the very poor category. India Gate recorded an AQI of 398, while multiple areas reported readings above 400.
Pollution levels were particularly high near the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, where readings ranged from 440 to 452. Other areas reporting AQI above 400 included Punjabi Bagh, Jahangirpuri, Rohini, R K Puram, and Vivek Vihar.
Between 16 and 22 of the city's 59 monitoring stations reported air quality in the severe category. The national AQI classification defines readings from 301 to 400 as very poor and those above 400 as severe.
The deterioration has reduced visibility across the city. Doctors have advised that children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory issues should stay inside and avoid going outdoors.
CPCB monitoring stations will continue to provide readings for Delhi and the wider National Capital Region (NCR) to track how air quality changes after the festival.