Suryaa National Desk: Air quality in the national capital, Delhi, has deteriorated significantly following the widespread bursting of firecrackers during Diwali celebrations. Air quality monitoring agencies reported that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in several parts of the city has crossed 400, reaching the severe category.
Reports indicate that firecrackers were burst until late at night, violating restrictions set by the Supreme Court regarding the use of green crackers and permitted time limits. By Monday morning, areas including India Gate were covered in a thick layer of smog and smoke.
This decline in air quality is attributed to a combination of firecracker smoke, the onset of winter, vehicular emissions, and the burning of agricultural waste in states like Punjab. In response to the hazardous pollution levels, authorities have implemented restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and ordered schools to conduct classes online. Environmentalists are calling for immediate and stricter measures to address the pollution.