Delhi recently faced another alarming spike in air pollution following the Diwali festival. Despite a court ruling aimed at reducing the use of harmful fireworks, many continued to set off traditional firecrackers.
Air quality in Delhi is a year-round struggle, exacerbated by car emissions, construction dust, and now, the aftermath of Diwali. Just a day after the celebrations, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a staggering 360, indicating “very poor” air quality. For context, levels above 300 are deemed dangerous, while the World Health Organization recommends that PM2.5 levels should not exceed 15 micrograms per cubic meter. In Delhi, some areas recorded levels 24 times higher than this guideline.
The situation worsens in winter when farmers in nearby states burn crop stubble. Low winds trap smoke, including that from firecrackers, causing visibility issues and making the air even more difficult to breathe.
Since 2020, Delhi has had restrictions on firecrackers, but these rules aren’t always enforced. The recent Supreme Court decision allowed “green crackers,” which supposedly emit fewer pollutants, but experts warn that they still contribute to the city’s toxic air.
During Diwali, many stores advertised traditional firecrackers despite the legal restrictions. Some residents reported hearing fireworks well past the allowed timeframe, showing a disregard for the rules.
According to reports, one resident described waking up to a familiar haze. The air was so thick with smoke that visibility was significantly reduced. This descent into smog has many residents feeling resigned to their fate. As Paras Tyagi, a local resident, put it, “You can’t even think of stepping outside.”
Environmental experts express concern that the relaxation of cracker rules could undermine years of awareness-building regarding the dangers of air pollution. It appears that the public’s understanding of this crisis is still fragile.
In response to the worsening conditions, officials have implemented measures under the Graded Response Action Plan. This includes restricting diesel generators and the burning of coal and wood, aimed at improving air quality.
Delhi’s pollution crisis is a reminder of the urgent need for better policies and practices to protect residents from the harmful effects of poor air quality. For more information on this pressing issue, visit the World Health Organization for resources and guidelines.