Delhi-NCR Plunges Deeper into Smog Post-Diwali, AQI Reaches ‘Severe’ Levels in Punjabi Bagh

New Delhi: The Delhi-NCR region continued to grapple with extremely poor air quality on Wednesday, as smog thickened across the capital and its neighbouring cities in the aftermath of Diwali celebrations. Early morning readings indicated a sharp rise in pollution levels, largely attributed to the increased bursting of firecrackers during the festival.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi stood at 345, placing it firmly in the “very poor” category. In Noida, the AQI was slightly lower at 298, yet still classified as very poor, while Gurugram recorded 252, falling under the “poor” category.

The highest AQI in the region was noted at Punjabi Bagh, registering 437, which enters the “severe” category and approaches “hazardous” levels. The dense smog has severely reduced visibility and poses significant health risks, particularly for the elderly, children, and individuals with respiratory issues.

The CPCB categorises AQI levels as follows: 0–50 as good, 51–100 satisfactory, 101–200 moderate, 201–300 poor, 301–400 very poor, and 401–500 severe.

The spike in pollution follows a day of heavy firecracker activity on Diwali, despite a Supreme Court order issued on October 15 permitting the limited use of green firecrackers between October 18 and 20. The court had allowed their sale and use under strict conditions — only crackers produced within the NCR could be used, and usage was restricted to 6–7 pm and 8–10 pm. This was described by the court as a “balanced approach” to allow festive celebrations while protecting the environment.