Delhi Air Quality Deteriorates as Revellers Mark Diwali With Illegal Fireworks

The situation has once again raised concerns about the impact of festive celebrations on public health, particularly for children, elderly people and those suffering from breathing-related problems. While fireworks lit up the night sky, the smoke they produced remained in the atmosphere long after the celebrations ended.

According to official figures from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 370 at 9 a.m. on Monday, November 9. This falls under the 'very poor' category. Several neighbourhoods reported readings above 400, placing them in the 'severe' category.

The deterioration highlights the continuing challenge faced by authorities in controlling pollution during the winter season, especially when firecracker emissions add to an already unhealthy atmosphere.

Illegal Fireworks Add to Delhi's Pollution Problem

Despite restrictions on firecracker use, fireworks were heard across several parts of Delhi during Diwali celebrations. Residents reported that crackers continued to be burst late into the night, raising questions about how effectively the restrictions were being enforced.

Earlier this month, India's Supreme Court had permitted the use of certified low-pollution firecrackers during limited hours over the Diwali weekend. However, the celebrations in Delhi and other major cities did not always follow the permitted conditions.

Reports of fireworks also emerged from Mumbai, India's financial capital, where residents said crackers continued late into the night.

The smoke released by firecrackers contains fine particles and other pollutants that can affect air quality. These particles can remain suspended in the atmosphere, making the air difficult to breathe, particularly when weather conditions prevent pollutants from dispersing.

For many Delhi residents, the morning after Diwali brought an uncomfortable reminder of the city's annual pollution crisis. Thick haze covered several neighbourhoods, while the familiar smell of burnt firecrackers lingered in the air.

Delhi's AQI Reaches Very Poor Levels

The latest pollution figures show just how difficult the situation has become.

At 9 a.m. on Monday, Delhi's overall AQI stood at 370, according to the CPCB. An AQI between 301 and 400 is classified as very poor, while readings above 400 fall into the severe category.

Several areas across the capital recorded AQI levels above 400, suggesting that pollution was particularly high in certain neighbourhoods.

Visuals from central Delhi also showed a layer of smog surrounding India Gate, one of the city's most recognisable landmarks. The haze was another indication of how pollution had affected visibility across the national capital.

The situation was also reflected in international pollution rankings. According to Swiss air quality monitoring group IQAir, Delhi was ranked the third-most polluted city in the world on Monday morning. Lahore in Pakistan occupied the top position, with an AQI reading of 563.

These figures underline how seriously air pollution continues to affect major cities across South Asia.

Why Does Delhi's Air Pollution Get Worse During Winter?

Firecrackers are an important part of the latest pollution spike, but they are not the only reason Delhi struggles with poor air quality.

Every year, pollution becomes a major concern across northern India as winter approaches. Cooler temperatures, slower wind speeds and unfavourable weather conditions make it harder for pollutants to escape from the atmosphere.

Delhi already faces pollution from several sources, including vehicle emissions, construction activities, industrial operations and dust. Smoke from agricultural residue burning in neighbouring states such as Punjab and Haryana can also contribute to the problem.

During winter, cold and heavy air can trap these pollutants closer to the ground. As a result, pollution accumulates over residential areas, roads and busy commercial locations.

The addition of firecracker smoke during Diwali makes an already difficult situation worse.

This combination of seasonal pollution and festive emissions creates a serious challenge for authorities. Even when restrictions are introduced, controlling pollution becomes difficult without cooperation from residents and effective enforcement.

Health Concerns Grow as Residents Breathe Polluted Air

Poor air quality is not simply an environmental issue. It can also affect people's everyday health and quality of life.

Exposure to polluted air can cause coughing, throat irritation, breathing difficulties and irritation in the eyes. People with asthma and other respiratory conditions may experience worsening symptoms when pollution levels rise.

Children and older adults are particularly vulnerable because prolonged exposure to unhealthy air can put additional pressure on their respiratory systems.

Delhi residents who need to travel outdoors for work, education or other daily activities also face difficulties during periods of heavy pollution.

The problem becomes especially concerning when poor air quality continues for several days. Even people who do not normally experience breathing problems may notice discomfort when pollution levels remain high.

For this reason, doctors and public health experts regularly advise residents to reduce unnecessary outdoor exposure when air quality reaches very poor or severe levels.

Authorities Introduce Restrictions to Control Pollution

Delhi had already been experiencing poor air quality for more than a week before Diwali. In response to the worsening situation, authorities introduced additional restrictions on Friday under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

The measures included asking schools to conduct classes online, among other steps aimed at reducing exposure and controlling pollution.

However, the deterioration following Diwali shows that temporary restrictions alone may not be enough to address the capital's long-standing environmental problems.

Controlling vehicle emissions, construction dust, industrial pollution and agricultural smoke requires consistent action throughout the year. Strict enforcement of firecracker restrictions is also important, particularly during major celebrations.

Public participation remains equally important. Residents can help reduce pollution by avoiding prohibited fireworks, using public transport where practical and supporting cleaner ways of celebrating festivals.

Can Delhi Avoid the Same Pollution Crisis Every Year?

Delhi's post-Diwali pollution problem is not new. Almost every winter, the capital faces serious challenges as different pollution sources combine with unfavourable weather conditions.

The latest deterioration once again raises an important question: how can the city protect its residents while allowing people to enjoy traditional celebrations?

Diwali is an important festival for millions of families, and celebrating it does not necessarily have to mean compromising the environment. Choosing cleaner celebrations, avoiding illegal firecrackers and following official restrictions can help reduce the pollution burden.

At the same time, authorities need long-term solutions rather than relying only on emergency measures when air quality becomes dangerous.

Better public transport, stronger pollution monitoring, dust control at construction sites and coordinated action against agricultural burning could all play an important role in improving Delhi's air.

For now, residents are once again dealing with the consequences of unhealthy air following the festival. The celebrations may have ended, but the pollution left behind continues to affect everyday life across the capital.

The real challenge for Delhi is to ensure that future Diwali celebrations bring happiness and excitement without leaving millions of people struggling to breathe.