Delhi’s Air Quality Deteriorates to ‘Very Poor’ Ahead of Diwali as Stubble Burning Continues

New Delhi’s air quality has plummeted to hazardous levels this week as the capital city grapples with a surge in pollution ahead of the Diwali festival. Data from the government’s SAFAR website reveals that the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached “very poor” and “severe” categories, with PM 2.5 levels recorded as high as 350 micrograms per cubic meter in some areas. This concentration surpasses the World Health Organization (WHO)’s recommended safe limit by 25-30 times, posing serious health risks for residents.

Experts warn that the situation will likely worsen in the coming days due to seasonal changes, firecracker usage during Diwali, and crop stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana. Stubble burning, a common practice among farmers to clear fields post-harvest, significantly contributes to the dense smog enveloping Delhi each winter. 

Delhi and several northern Indian cities experience extreme pollution levels from October to January each year. As winter sets in, lower wind speeds trap pollutants from vehicular emissions, construction dust, and burning waste, leading to dangerous smog levels. Such conditions have led to school closures, disruptions in business operations, and heightened health advisories for vulnerable populations.

The Delhi government has imposed a blanket ban on the manufacture, storage, and sale of fireworks in an effort to mitigate Diwali-related pollution spikes. However, enforcement challenges remain as fireworks sourced from other states often make their way into Delhi despite restrictions. The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is also in effect, prohibiting activities involving coal and firewood, and restricting diesel generator use for non-emergency purposes.

In addition to regulatory measures, Delhi authorities have recommended that residents limit outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution periods. Public transport use is encouraged to reduce vehicle emissions, and construction activity in the city has been curbed. However, health experts caution that these steps may not be enough to protect against the surge in PM 2.5 pollutants, which can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and other long-term health complications.

Farming groups in neighboring states argue that they need financial support and viable alternatives to stubble burning. Current government initiatives aimed at providing farmers with alternative solutions have seen limited success, with calls for increased funding and technological resources to tackle the issue sustainably.

As Delhi braces for Diwali, the air quality crisis underscores a broader need for effective, region-wide pollution management and collaboration among states. Authorities in Delhi continue to issue health advisories, urging residents to take precautions, yet the question of long-term pollution control remains unresolved.

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