New Delhi: The impact of heavy fireworks in Delhi on Diwali night was clearly visible the next day in the capital’s air and visibility. Smoke from firecrackers led to dense haze in several areas and reduced visibility on roads. On Monday morning, people had to begin the day amid polluted air. Complaints of breathing difficulty and irritation in the eyes were also reported at several places.
According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) on Diwali was recorded at 376, which falls in the very poor category. On Monday morning, the AQI fluctuated at different times. It was 366 at 6:15 am and around 370 at 9 am. By 10 pm on Diwali night, air quality at 20 monitoring centres had reached the severe category. Sonia Vihar recorded an AQI of 463 and Jahangirpuri 450.
In Delhi, the designated time for bursting firecrackers was from 8 pm to 10 pm. Despite this, fireworks continued until midnight in many areas. A thick layer of smoke was seen in several areas, including Burari, Pitampura, Mayur Vihar and Lutyens’ Delhi.
According to experts, firecrackers alone are not responsible for the rise in pollution. Vehicle emissions, industrial emissions, dust from construction work and stubble burning in neighbouring states also affect the air. Low wind speed and adverse weather conditions keep pollutant particles trapped in the atmosphere.
Such air can be more harmful for children, the elderly and people suffering from respiratory illnesses. In view of the weather and pollution situation, caution will be needed in the capital over the next few days.
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