A thick layer of toxic smog enveloped the national capital on the morning after Diwali celebrations pushing Delhi air quality deep into the very poor category and sparking fresh health concerns across the region. Data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed the city average Air Quality Index (AQI) hovering at 376. However several prominent localities including Sonia Vihar Burari and Vivek Vihar crossed the hazardous 400 mark entering the severe zone as emergency monitoring stations logged alarming spikes in PM2.5 levels. Neighboring NCR cities such as Noida Gurugram and Faridabad also recorded dismal air quality remaining trapped under a heavy layer of haze.
The sudden deterioration in air quality stems from widespread firecracker burning across the capital overnight compounded by calm wind speeds and low temperatures that prevented toxic pollutants from dispersing. Early morning commuters faced severely reduced visibility on major roadways while doctors warned residents especially children senior citizens and patients with pre existing respiratory issues to avoid outdoors exercises and wear protective masks.
Authorities have tightened enforcement under Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) deploying water sprinklers and anti smog guns across high density corridors. Environmental experts emphasize that unless weather conditions improve or strict emergency measures are maintained the national capital region will continue to face hazardous atmospheric conditions over the coming days.
