Smog Chokes Delhi After Diwali, Air Quality Dips To ‘Hazardous’ Levels | Explained

Thick smog blanketed New Delhi a day after Diwali, as fireworks sent air pollution levels soaring to hazardous levels. Despite a partial Supreme Court relaxation allowing “green crackers,” the rule was widely flouted. By Tuesday morning, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed 350 in several areas, far above safe limits, shrouding the city’s skyline, monuments, and streets in dense haze. Experts warn that seasonal pollution, stagnant weather, and crop-burning smoke are making Delhi’s air more toxic this winter. Authorities have imposed temporary restrictions, but environmentalists say long-term steps, cleaner energy, stricter emissions, and sustainable celebrations are essential to stop this annual crisis. 

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