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Delhi-NCR Chokes on Toxic Air After Diwali Festivities

New Delhi, India – Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) are once again grappling with severely degraded air quality following Diwali celebrations. Despite partial restrictions on firecrackers, the Air Quality Index (AQI) has soared to “very poor” and even “severe” levels in many areas.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) had already activated Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Sunday as the AQI surpassed 300. As of Monday afternoon, the 24-hour average AQI remained at “very poor” levels.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), out of 38 sensors deployed across Delhi, 31 registered “very poor” air quality, while three indicated “severe” conditions. The average AQI for Delhi reached 334, falling within the “very poor” category. Specific areas such as Anand Vihar (402), Wazirpur (423), and Ashok Vihar (414) recorded “severe” pollution levels.

A thick smog has enveloped the NCR, reducing visibility and creating a hazardous breathing environment. Health experts are advising residents, particularly those with respiratory ailments like asthma, to stay indoors, wear N95 masks when outdoors, and minimize exposure to the polluted air.

While the Supreme Court had permitted the sale and use of only “green” firecrackers within designated time slots (6-7 AM and 8-10 PM on October 19th and 20th), the city’s air quality has deteriorated significantly post-Diwali.

Experts warn that the air quality is likely to worsen over the next two days, October 21st and 22nd. The situation underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing cultural traditions with the need to protect public health in the face of severe air pollution.

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