Toxic smog blankets India’s capital following overnight Diwali firecracker celebrations, raising concerns over respiratory health and visibility.

NEW DELHI: A thick layer of toxic smog engulfed New Delhi on Sunday as air quality deteriorated sharply, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching a hazardous 483 following Diwali celebrations.

According to India’s Central Pollution Control Board, several locations across the capital recorded AQI readings above 400 after widespread firecracker use during the Hindu festival of lights.

The sharp deterioration came just two days after authorities implemented Stage III emergency measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to tackle worsening pollution.

The hazardous air conditions have raised concerns over respiratory problems and reduced visibility, posing additional health risks for residents.

The pollution crisis is being driven by several seasonal factors, including low wind speeds, winter moisture and agricultural stubble burning in neighbouring states, which contribute to increased concentrations of fine particulate matter, particularly PM2.5 and PM10.

These factors have further intensified pollution caused by year-round vehicle emissions, industrial activity and construction dust.

New Delhi regularly ranks among the world’s most polluted capital cities, with deteriorating air quality becoming a major public health concern during the winter months.

The latest pollution spike highlights the continuing challenges faced by authorities in controlling seasonal smog and limiting the impact of firecracker celebrations on the capital’s air quality.