Delhi AQI Soars to Alarming Levels: 5 Key Reasons Pollution Hits ‘Very Poor’ Category Post-Diwali

New Delhi, October 31, 2024 — Following Diwali celebrations, Delhi’s air quality has worsened significantly, pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) into the ‘Very Poor’ category. As citizens wake up to a haze-laden sky, concerns are mounting over the adverse health impacts and the necessity for urgent measures to address this annual pollution spike.

Image Source – Hindustan Times

Post-Diwali AQI Levels

According to data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the AQI readings across multiple areas in Delhi hit hazardous levels this morning. This post-Diwali spike is largely attributed to the release of particulate matter from firecrackers and the seasonal temperature drop, which traps pollutants closer to the ground.

Why the Sudden Increase?

There are several major factors responsible for the severe level of pollution:

• Use of firecrackers: Despite government advisories, firecrackers were widely used, leading to a rise in PM2.5 and PM10 levels.
• Seasonal effects: As winter approaches, the temperature inversion effect in Delhi traps pollutants closer to the ground.
• Vehicular and industrial emissions: Delhi’s heavy traffic and industrial activity constantly raise pollution levels.

Government response and measures

In view of the deteriorating air quality, the Delhi Government has taken the following steps:

• Ban on firecrackers: A complete ban was imposed on the sale of firecrackers ahead of Diwali, but compliance remains an issue.
• Vehicle restrictions: The ‘odd-even’ rule for vehicles may be re-imposed if pollution levels persist.
• Air quality monitoring: Continuous monitoring by agencies like SAFAR aims to keep people informed about high-risk areas.

Health precautions for residents

With the AQI in the ‘very poor’ category, it is important for residents to take precautions:

• Limit outdoor activities: Avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially in the morning when pollution levels are often highest.
• Use an air purifier indoors: Running an air purifier indoors can reduce your risk of exposure to pollutants indoors.
• Wear a mask: N95 masks can help filter out harmful particles when outdoors.

Steps Citizens Can Take

Residents can contribute to reducing pollution through small but impactful actions:

• Carpooling and public transport: Reduce personal vehicle use to limit emissions.
• Avoid open burning: Discourage burning of waste in open spaces to reduce smoke and particulate matter in the air.
• Follow government advice: Stay updated about pollution levels and follow the advice of health and environmental authorities.

Pollution levels still remain high, so Delhiites are requested to take necessary precautions for their health and support initiatives aimed at improving air quality. Although the immediate post-Diwali effects are severe, continued cooperation between the public and government authorities will be crucial to tackling Delhi’s pollution crisis in the long run.