📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Rohit2301
Weather
Delhi-NCR Air Quality Index Surpasses 400 Ahead of Diwali
✍️ Amar Ujala · Delhi
🗓 03 Nov 2026, 01:16 PM
👁 19
Air quality in Delhi and surrounding NCR districts has deteriorated, with the AQI crossing the 400 mark as Diwali approaches.
The atmosphere over Delhi and the National Capital Region has become increasingly hazardous in the days leading up to Diwali. Monitoring agencies report that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in several locations has risen above 400, a level classified as severe and potentially harmful to health.
The spike in pollutants is attributed to a combination of factors, including stagnant weather conditions, increased vehicular traffic, and the onset of firecracker sales ahead of the festival. Authorities have issued health advisories, urging residents, especially those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor exposure and use masks.
State and municipal bodies are intensifying anti‑smog measures, such as restricting diesel generators, enhancing street cleaning, and deploying additional air‑monitoring stations. The public is also being reminded to follow guidelines on firecracker usage to prevent further deterioration of air quality.
Experts caution that the AQI could remain in the hazardous range until weather patterns shift or effective mitigation steps are fully implemented. Continuous monitoring will determine whether the situation improves before the festive celebrations begin.
The spike in pollutants is attributed to a combination of factors, including stagnant weather conditions, increased vehicular traffic, and the onset of firecracker sales ahead of the festival. Authorities have issued health advisories, urging residents, especially those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor exposure and use masks.
State and municipal bodies are intensifying anti‑smog measures, such as restricting diesel generators, enhancing street cleaning, and deploying additional air‑monitoring stations. The public is also being reminded to follow guidelines on firecracker usage to prevent further deterioration of air quality.
Experts caution that the AQI could remain in the hazardous range until weather patterns shift or effective mitigation steps are fully implemented. Continuous monitoring will determine whether the situation improves before the festive celebrations begin.