Delhi AQI rises to 376, 12 stations record severe pollution on Diwali

Pollution levels across Delhi remained in the 'very poor' category on Sunday, with the city recording an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 376, according to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. However, 12 monitoring stations reported readings above 400, placing those areas in the 'severe' category. The air quality is forecast to deteriorate further on Monday as firecracker emissions add to existing pollution amid unfavourable weather conditions.

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Delhi's average AQI stood at 369 on Saturday and 382 on Friday. Although the citywide reading remained below the severe threshold, several neighbourhoods were already experiencing severe pollution. 

12 Delhi monitoring stations record severe air quality

Of the 59 monitoring stations that reported readings on Sunday, 12 recorded 'severe' air quality, while 22 were in the 'very poor' category. Jahangirpuri recorded the highest AQI among the stations at 463.

Delhi AQI forecast for November 9 points to severe pollution

According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the city's AQI is likely to enter the 'severe' category on Monday. 

Vehicle emissions and stubble burning add to Delhi pollution

Firecracker emissions during Diwali are expected to add to pollution from road traffic and crop-residue burning in neighbouring states. The Delhi Decision Support System estimated that transport would contribute around 19 per cent of the city's pollution on Sunday, while stubble burning would account for approximately 3.5 per cent. 

Fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5, was the main pollutant identified in Delhi on Sunday. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and pose health risks. 

Supreme Court sets Diwali firecracker restrictions in Delhi-NCR

The Supreme Court had permitted the use of certified green firecrackers in Delhi and neighbouring National Capital Region (NCR) areas on November 7 and 8, but only during two time slots: from 6 am to 7 am and from 8 pm to 10 pm. The temporary relaxation ends on Sunday, with the general firecracker ban due to come into effect again on November 9.

The court also prohibited the use of firecrackers within 300 metres of hospitals, nursing homes, old-age homes, educational institutions and notified silence zones. Conventional firecrackers and those without the required certification were not covered by the relaxation.

Under the CPCB's air quality scale, an AQI between 301 and 400 falls in the 'very poor' category, while readings between 401 and 500 are classified as 'severe'. Air quality in the severe category can affect healthy people as well as those with existing respiratory or other health conditions.

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