Delhi AQI to Hazardous Levels Fireworks Fuel Dangerous Pollution Levels in Delhi
Despite strict restrictions on fireworks in Delhi, Diwali night saw widespread use of firecrackers, leading to an alarming rise in air pollution. The capital’s air quality index (AQI) surged into the ‘very poor’ category, reaching a concerning 330 by 10 p.m., with levels of particulate matter (PM 2.5 and PM 10) soaring. As a result, the city’s residents are now facing hazardous air conditions, heightening health risks, especially respiratory concerns. The late-night fireworks created a haze over the city, trapping toxins and significantly degrading air quality.
Delhi AQI to Hazardous Levels: Violations of Firecracker Ban and Increased Health Risks
This Diwali, Delhi residents in many parts of the city defied the ban on firecrackers, with neighborhoods like Jaunpur, Punjabi Bagh, Burari, and East of Kailash brightly illuminated by fireworks. Despite efforts to enforce the ban, including the formation of 377 enforcement teams and increased awareness campaigns, large-scale violations were reported, particularly in East and West Delhi. Local officials have since indicated that legal action will be taken against those caught violating the ban, with charges filed under applicable sections of the Indian Penal Code.
Compared to previous years, the AQI on Diwali night this year showed a troubling spike. Delhi’s AQI averaged 330, rising from 307 the day prior. In 2023, favorable weather kept the AQI around 218, a relatively safe level; however, a mix of unfavorable meteorological conditions, stubble burning in neighboring regions, and the surge of fireworks pushed pollution levels back up this year. Certain areas, such as Anand Vihar, recorded AQI levels in the ‘severe’ category, while neighboring regions like Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram fared slightly better, with AQI remaining in the ‘poor’ category.
Worsening Pollution Trends Over Recent Years
Delhi’s struggle with post-Diwali pollution has been a recurring issue, compounded by a variety of factors, including stubble burning, vehicle emissions, and firecrackers. In recent years, air quality on Diwali night has fluctuated but mostly stayed in hazardous ranges:
- 2023: AQI 218
- 2022: AQI 312
- 2021: AQI 382
- 2020: AQI 414
- 2019: AQI 337
- 2018: AQI 281
- 2017: AQI 319
- 2016: AQI 431
These figures highlight the recurring air quality challenges Delhi faces every Diwali, despite efforts to regulate firecracker use and address other pollution sources.
Government Measures and Public Challenges
For the fifth consecutive year, Delhi’s government imposed a strict ban on the manufacturing, sale, and use of firecrackers to mitigate Diwali-related pollution spikes. Delhi’s Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, announced the setup of 377 teams tasked with monitoring and enforcing this ban, marking a coordinated effort to address public health risks. Despite these measures, enforcement remains difficult, with widespread non-compliance witnessed this year. While awareness campaigns and local associations aimed to educate citizens on the dangers of firecracker pollution, the city still saw considerable violations.
The government is expected to release data on the enforcement efforts, detailing actions taken against violators. In some cases, individuals found using firecrackers may face legal consequences, potentially leading to prosecution under specific sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for non-compliance with government orders.
Health Implications and Rising Respiratory Issues
The poor air quality post-Diwali brings severe health consequences, especially for those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. High levels of PM 2.5, which measured around 145.1 micrograms per cubic meter, and PM 10, at 272 micrograms per cubic meter, are particularly dangerous, as these fine particles penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. This year’s pollution increase has left the city vulnerable to a rise in cases of respiratory and cardiovascular issues, with children, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses at heightened risk.
Dr. Anil Gupta, a pulmonologist at a leading hospital in Delhi, notes that “the surge in pollutants after Diwali makes the air nearly unbreathable. Many of our patients with asthma and bronchitis experience acute symptoms during this period, and we see an increase in emergency visits related to respiratory distress.” Dr. Gupta stresses the importance of remaining indoors, especially for high-risk individuals, and recommends the use of air purifiers and masks for added protection.
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FAQs
1. Why does Delhi’s AQI worsen after Diwali every year?
Delhi’s AQI tends to worsen significantly after Diwali due to a combination of factors, including the widespread use of firecrackers, which release high levels of harmful pollutants, and unfavorable weather conditions that trap pollutants in the atmosphere. In addition to local pollution, crop stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana contributes to an already toxic environment, compounding the effects of firecrackers and resulting in a rise in particulate matter in the air. As a result, the city’s air quality plunges into hazardous levels almost every Diwali.
2. What actions are being taken to improve Delhi’s air quality?
1. Why does Delhi’s AQI worsen after Diwali every year?
Delhi’s AQI tends to worsen significantly after Diwali due to a combination of factors, including the widespread use of firecrackers, which release high levels of harmful pollutants, and unfavorable weather conditions that trap pollutants in the atmosphere. In addition to local pollution, crop stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana contributes to an already toxic environment, compounding the effects of firecrackers and resulting in a rise in particulate matter in the air. As a result, the city’s air quality plunges into hazardous levels almost every Diwali.
