Delhi Chokes Post-Diwali: AQI Plummets, Health Experts Sound Alarm

In the aftermath of Diwali festivities, Delhi's air quality has drastically deteriorated, plunging into the 'very poor' category with an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 351 as reported by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on Tuesday evening.

Particularly concerning is Bawana, where the AQI soared to 424, marking it as the only area under the 'severe' category. Other areas like Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, and Burari Crossing also recorded distressingly high AQI figures of 332, 373, and 388, respectively. In response to the worsening conditions, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR has urgently implemented Stage-II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to combat further degradation.

Health specialists have voiced serious concerns regarding the health implications of excessive pollution levels, especially for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Dr. Nikhil Modi of Apollo Hospitals attributed the seasonal spike to cooling air trapping pollutants near the ground, exacerbated by post-Diwali conditions.

Emphasizing the urgency of the situation, Dr. Dhiren Gupta warned of the hazardous impacts of pollution on children and expectant mothers, noting that sensitive organs in younger and developing individuals are particularly vulnerable. Experts recommend wearing masks and limiting exposure to mitigate risks.