.svg)
New Delhi was blanketed in thick smog on Monday after Diwali celebrations worsened air pollution, with several monitoring stations recording air quality levels in the severe category.
Mariyam Adheela
NEW DELHI, India: A thick blanket of smog engulfed New Delhi on today, reducing visibility across several parts of the Indian capital as air pollution levels remained dangerously high following celebrations in India.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi recorded an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 368 at 7:00 a.m., placing the city in the very poor category. However, several monitoring stations reported readings above 400, which falls under the severe category.
Jahangirpuri recorded an AQI of 433, while Chandni Chowk and Mundka registered 418 and 417 respectively. Thick smog also affected visibility in areas including Inderlok, with residents reporting irritation in their eyes and throats.
The deterioration followed Diwali celebrations on Sunday, when fireworks were set off across the capital despite restrictions imposed by the Supreme Court.
The court had permitted only certified green firecrackers during specified hours on November 7 and 8. A complete ban on firecrackers in Delhi and the National Capital Region was scheduled to resume from today.
Authorities have also been dealing with seasonal pollution caused by vehicle emissions, industrial activity, construction dust and crop residue burning in neighbouring states. Cooler temperatures and weak winds have further contributed to the accumulation of pollutants over the city.
Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been in force across Delhi and the National Capital Region since November 6, introducing additional restrictions aimed at reducing pollution.
The air quality is expected to remain poor in the coming days, with forecasts indicating a possible improvement from the severe category to very poor levels on Tuesday.
