Sun Oct 12 19:42:22 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text, formatted for publication:

**Headline: Delhi Breathes Easier as Air Quality Improves, Crackdown on Firecrackers Intensifies**

**New Delhi, October 13, 2025:** Delhi residents experienced a slight respite from air pollution on Sunday, with the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) registering in the ‘moderate’ category. The 24-hour average AQI stood at 167 at 4 p.m., a decrease from 199 the previous day, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

While the forecast indicates a potential slip into the ‘poor’ category from October 15th, Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa highlighted significant improvements in air quality compared to previous years. According to Sirsa, Delhi has recorded 199 “clean air days” this year, versus 110 in 2016. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta for the improvements.

“This is not an outcome of chance or weather. It is the result of continuous, coordinated action. Under CM Rekha Gupta’s leadership, Delhi has shifted from paper-based promises to tech-based performance,” said Minister Sirsa.

In related news, Delhi police are intensifying efforts to enforce the ban on firecrackers ahead of the festive season. A man was arrested in north-east Delhi’s Gokalpuri area after police seized 675 kilogrammes of banned firecrackers from his vehicle.

Commissioner Satish Golcha has also initiated citywide night patrols to enhance security across all 15 police districts. “This initiative enhances police visibility and reassures residents of their safety during the festive season,” said Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) Abhishek Dhania.

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