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Weather
Delhi’s Air Quality Index Soars to 384 During Diwali, Nearing Severe Levels
✍️ India Today
🗓 08 Nov 2026, 08:09 AM
👁 18
During the Diwali celebrations, Delhi’s air quality index reached 384, approaching the severe category, according to the latest readings.
Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) spiked to 384 on the night of Diwali, the highest reading recorded in recent weeks, placing the city just below the severe threshold of 300. The spike was reported by the Delhi Pollution Control Committee and confirmed by the Central Pollution Control Board.
The surge is attributed to the widespread use of fireworks and the burning of incense sticks, which released large amounts of particulate matter into the atmosphere. Health officials warned residents, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor activities and use masks if they must go outside.
In response, the Delhi administration has tightened restrictions on firecracker sales in several markets and urged citizens to light electric diyas instead of traditional candles. The city’s municipal corporation has also set up temporary air quality monitoring stations to provide real‑time updates to the public.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as the AQI could cross the severe mark if the current trend continues, prompting further measures to safeguard public health.
The surge is attributed to the widespread use of fireworks and the burning of incense sticks, which released large amounts of particulate matter into the atmosphere. Health officials warned residents, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor activities and use masks if they must go outside.
In response, the Delhi administration has tightened restrictions on firecracker sales in several markets and urged citizens to light electric diyas instead of traditional candles. The city’s municipal corporation has also set up temporary air quality monitoring stations to provide real‑time updates to the public.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as the AQI could cross the severe mark if the current trend continues, prompting further measures to safeguard public health.