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Smog, fireworks, and silent violations:Delhi’s AQI enters severe zone as Supreme Court’s green cracker window overlooked; experts warn of 48-hour toxic spell post-Diwali

Environmental experts warn that even so-called “green crackers” contribute significantly to short-term particulate spikes. “The concept of green fireworks is relative they emit fewer pollutants than traditional ones but are far from clean,” said a researcher from the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). The national capital is once again cloaked in a toxic haze, with air quality plummeting to “severe” levels as pollution levels crossed the 370 mark on the Air Quality Index (AQI) on Monday evening. According to real-time data from aqi.in, PM2.5 concentrations hovered around 255 µg/m³, while PM10 touched 330 µg/m³, making the air “extremely hazardous” for all age groups. In pockets such as Anand Vihar, Jahangirpuri, and Rohini, AQI readings soared beyond 600, reflecting sporadic but alarming spikes in toxicity. Even a few minutes outdoors, experts warn, could trigger respiratory distress, eye irritation, and fatigue among vulnerable populations.

Diwali fireworks choke Delhi: 36 stations hit ‘red zone’, 4 record AQI above 400

Environmental groups, including Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), urged stricter enforcement of cracker bans and long-term investment in public transport and green zones. While the Environment Ministry has insisted that GRAP measures would help “stabilise” conditions, experts remain sceptical given the recurring post-festival spikes.​ As residents across Delhi celebrated Diwali with fireworks late into Monday night, the capital’s air quality nosedived to the ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ categories by Tuesday morning. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 347 at 7 a.m., with 36 of 38 monitoring stations falling in the red zone. Major hotspots such as Wazirpur (423), Dwarka (417), Anand Vihar (404), and Jahangirpuri (407) registered ‘severe’ pollution levels, while even residential zones like Lodhi Road and ITO hovered around 340–350. Despite Supreme Court restrictions allowing only green firecrackers for limited hours, emissions rose sharply, prompting the continuation of Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR. Capital Engulfed in Toxic Smog Thick grey smog blanketed Delhi’s skyline on Tuesday morning – a haunting ritual that follows every Diwali celebration. Visibility dropped below 100 metres in some neighbourhoods, and the air carried an acrid smell of burnt powder. By 8 a.m., Delhi’s average AQI stood at 350 , marking one of the worst post-Diwali mornings in three years. CPCB’s SAMEER app indicated that several areas breached the AQI 400 mark, reflecting hazardous pollution levels. Fire stations received over 260 calls overnight, mostly for minor blazes triggered by fireworks, but no serious injuries were reported. DPCC officials confirmed that unregulated firecracker bursting continued beyond the permissible 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. window. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta reiterated her appeal for public cooperation, stating, “This is not just a policy matter anymore – it’s a public health emergency in slow motion.” Health experts warned that prolonged exposure could aggravate respiratory diseases, especially among children and the elderly.​ Rising Pollution Despite Crackdown Efforts In the days leading up to the festival, authorities had enforced preventive action under GRAP Stage II, banning most construction and dust-inducing activities. The Supreme Court, while allowing green crackers between October 18 and 20, aimed to strike a balanced approach between tradition and sustainability. However, enforcement faltered as non-compliance remained widespread. According to data from SAFAR and CPCB, particulate matter (PM2.5) concentration stood at more than 15–18 times the safe limit of 60 µg/m³ across north and central Delhi on Tuesday morning. Officials attributed the spike to meteorological factors, including stagnant wind speeds below 5 kmph and reduced atmospheric dispersion. Experts also flagged the onset of stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana as contributing to the pollution surge. The CAQM has warned that without rain or stable winds, Delhi’s air could remain in the ‘severe’ category throughout the week. Last year, the city had reported an average post-Diwali AQI of 359, nearly similar to this year’s levels, indicating minimal progress despite intensified awareness campaigns. Human Cost and Call for Responsibility Residents took to social media with visuals of dense smog around India Gate and Connaught Place, expressing frustration at the recurring pattern. “We are gasping, not living,” one Delhiite wrote on X (formerly Twitter), echoing a sentiment of helplessness and anger. Public health experts highlighted that elevated PM2.5 levels pose serious risks even for healthy adults, linking Delhi’s air quality spikes to rising cases of asthma, bronchitis, and cardiovascular complications. Environmental groups, including Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), urged stricter enforcement of cracker bans and long-term investment in public transport and green zones. While the Environment Ministry has insisted that GRAP measures would help “stabilise” conditions, experts remain sceptical given the recurring post-festival spikes.​ The Logical Indian’s Perspective Year after year, the morning after Diwali serves as a painful reminder that celebration without restraint can darken the very skies we wish to light. Delhi’s deepening smog is not just a matter of air quality but a mirror to collective accountability. While bans and policies play their part, real transformation begins with empathy – the willingness to prioritise public well-being over momentary pleasure.

55 pc of Hyderabad still outside air quality monitoring network

Hyderabad: Despite efforts under the National Air Quality Programme (NAQP) to strengthen air quality monitoring, nearly 55% of Hyderabad’s area remains uncovered, making it difficult to track and control emissions. Currently, the city has 10 Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS). However, experts say that this number is far below the requirement. According to the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), which conducted a recent study, Hyderabad needs at least 30 CAAQMS stations to effectively monitor air quality across the Greater Hyderabad region, in line with CPCB guidelines that recommend station numbers based on population size. The main pollutants measured by these monitoring centres include sulphur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), ozone (O3), carbon dioxide (CO2), and particulate matter PM 2.5 and PM 10. These sensors continuously record the concentration of pollutants in the air and send reports to the State and Central Pollution Control Boards (PCB) at regular intervals.

Why Delhi’s PM2.5 levels dropped rapidly post Diwali after hitting 4-year high

Concentration of PM2.5, tiny airborne particles that can get absorbed into the bloodstream and pose significant health risks, surged by midnight to the second-highest recorded in Delhi over the past five Diwalis, but plummeted just as rapidly by Tuesday afternoon. This drop for a post-Diwali day, experts told ThePrint, was mainly because of weather conditions and a lower-than-usual count of farm fires. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data shows that Delhi’s concentration of PM2.5 peaked at an hourly average of 675 micrograms per cubic metres (ug/m3) at midnight on 21 October. But it was down to 82 ug/m3 by 3 pm Tuesday. “It is quite common for Diwali night to see extreme pollution, and then a steep fall the next morning. As the sun rises, the particles start dissipating. Also, the winds were favourable and since it was not too cold, particulate matter did not stay in the air for too long,” said Shambhavi Shukla, programme manager at think-tank Centre for Science and Environment (CSE). The same trend in real-time PM2.5 levels held up across monitoring stations in the city. At RK Puram, a residential area sandwiched between the Outer and Inner Ring Roads, PM2.5 logged a high of 1,476 ug/m3 at midnight and fell to 117ug/m3 by Tuesday afternoon.

Delhi air pollution spikes post-Diwali: What is the way out?

Delhi and its neighbouring regions are facing dangerously high air pollution levels during Diwali. The Federal’s Editor-in-Chief S Srinivasan hosted the latest Capital Beat panel, featuring Prof Gufran Beig, Chair and Founder of SAFAR; Soumya Sarkar, senior Journalist; and Dr Rajesh Chawla, Pulmonology & Critical Care, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Delhi. The discussion focused on rising AQI levels, health hazards, and potential mitigation strategies. Extreme air quality and monitoring Most monitoring stations in Delhi and the National Capital Region reported air quality index (AQI) readings above 450, classified as “severe plus”. Experts warn that these levels could persist until January, making the city one of the most hazardous places to live, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying health conditions. Prof Beig explained the technical limits of AQI measurements: “When it comes to 999, that means the monitor is set to a maximum of 1000, and the last reading it can show is 999 because it cannot touch 1,000.” He noted that some stations recorded values exceeding 1700–1800, reflecting extreme pollution spikes. Health impact of particulate matter Dr. Chawla described the effects of particulate matter on the lungs. Fine particles such as PM2.5 penetrate deep into lung tissue and can trigger inflammation, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchial asthma, coronary artery disease, and strokes. He noted that high pollutant levels exacerbate symptoms, increase medical interventions, and prolong recovery from infections. He highlighted a seasonal surge in respiratory illnesses during winter months due to stagnant air, low humidity, and pollutants carried from neighbouring states: “There is a 20% increase in patients, particularly those suffering from respiratory illnesses, during this period.” Even healthy individuals experience long-term effects, with repeated exposure potentially shortening life expectancy by several years and increasing risks for lung cancer, vascular diseases, and chronic respiratory conditions. Contributing factors to winter pollution Soumya Sarkar emphasised multiple causes of Delhi’s winter pollution, including vehicle emissions, industrial activity, construction dust, Diwali firecrackers, and stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh. She also highlighted meteorological conditions such as low wind speeds and temperature inversion that trap pollutants over the region. Prof Beig cited data from the Centre for Science and Environment: vehicular emissions contribute 51.5% of pollution, emissions from neighbouring districts 34.9%, farm fires 8.1%, and dust 3.7%. He stressed that while meteorology is uncontrollable, reducing human-generated emissions remains critical. Experts noted the increasing role of Diwali firecrackers in worsening pollution. The scale of bursting has grown exponentially over the past 15 years, surpassing public awareness campaigns and regulatory interventions. Limitations of green crackers The panel discussed the Supreme Court’s permission for limited use of “green crackers,” intended to reduce emissions. Experts warned that green crackers still emit 60–70% of pollutants compared to conventional firecrackers. Prof Beig explained: “Green crackers are not a lasting solution. They reduce emissions partially, similar to switching from diesel to petrol or CNG, but they still contribute significant pollution.” Authorities face difficulty enforcing restrictions due to the open market for these products and widespread public participation during the festival. Long-term mitigation strategies Experts called for a comprehensive “air shed” approach that transcends political and administrative boundaries. This strategy would coordinate actions across all affected districts and states to target emissions from transport, biomass fuel, dust, and industry. Prof Beig stressed: “Unless you are attacking the root cause of emissions with air shed–based strategies, the problem is not going to be solved in a shorter time.” Quick fixes like smoke towers, water guns, or artificial rain provide minimal relief and are insufficient for sustained improvement. Soumya Sarkar added that bipartisan political support is essential for meaningful progress. Without multi-party consensus on pollution control as a public health priority, short-term gains will not materialize. The human cost of prolonged exposure Prolonged exposure to Delhi’s polluted air has measurable impacts on health efficiency and life expectancy. Dr. Chawla explained that repeated exposure prevents the body from adapting, intensifying respiratory and cardiovascular disease risk. Non-smokers face health risks comparable to smokers in other regions due to constant pollutant inhalation. Experts highlighted the persistent strain on medical infrastructure, with patients requiring increased medication and extended recovery periods. Children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic diseases are particularly vulnerable. The panel emphasised that while some short-term measures may reduce pollution spikes, only sustained, coordinated policies addressing emission sources can ensure long-term public health improvement.

Why Delhi air quality plunged after Diwali despite ‘green’ crackers

New Delhi: Delhi woke up on Tuesday to a blanket of thick, grey smog — the familiar post-Diwali haze that once again smothered the city despite the Supreme Court’s order allowing only “green” firecrackers. The night sky had glowed with rockets and colourful fireworks, but by dawn the air had turned heavy, hazy, and hard to breathe. At 8 a.m., the national capital’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 350, categorised as “very poor.” Across the city, 36 of 38 monitoring stations entered the red zone, with areas such as Dwarka (417), Ashok Vihar (404), Wazirpur (423) and Anand Vihar (404) touching “severe” levels. By late morning, visuals from Akshardham and India Gate revealed a city cloaked in haze. Polluted mornings: A recurring Diwali trend Post-Diwali pollution spikes have become an annual ritual for Delhi. Nov 1, 2024: AQI 359, per SAFAR data. Nov 13, 2023: AQI 438, after residents defied the cracker ban. Oct 25, 2022: AQI 315 (very poor). Nov 5, 2021: AQI 454 (severe), with widespread ban violations. At Anand Vihar, one of Delhi’s most polluted spots, AQI this year reached 360, barely an improvement over previous years (396 in 2024, 312 in 2023, 356 in 2022). Eat carrots, sing or pray in Delhi’s smog Green crackers: A promise that failed to deliver The Supreme Court first imposed a ban on firecrackers in 2014–15, citing public-health risks, but enforcement has remained weak. This year, in an attempt to balance industry interests and citizens’ health, the Court permitted only green crackers — said to emit 30 per cent less pollution — between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. However, celebrations went on well past midnight. Traditional firecrackers were still sold in open markets, and residents across Delhi and its suburbs defied the time and material restrictions. “Thirty per cent less pollution still means poison,” said environmental activist Bhavreen Kandhari, who has campaigned for clean air for nearly three decades. “Are you saying ‘less poison’ is acceptable? I’ve fought for clean air even before my children were born — and still managed to give them damaged lungs.” Data tells the same story Delhi’s 24-hour average AQI on Monday stood at 345 (very poor), up from 326 the previous day. Transport emissions contributed 15.6 %, while industrial sources added 23.3 %, according to the Decision Support System (DSS). The World Health Organization recommends PM 2.5 exposure not exceed 15 µg/m³ over 24 hours — but parts of Delhi recorded levels 24 times higher. Weather and stubble worsen the mix Experts say Delhi’s toxic air each winter is a deadly blend of: Stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, Vehicular emissions, Dust and industrial output, and Low wind speeds that trap pollutants near the ground. Even before Diwali, AQI had already crossed 300 for several days. On Sunday, authorities invoked Stage II (GRAP-2) of the Graded Response Action Plan, restricting diesel generators and solid-fuel burning. Why the smog persists Environmentalists argue that piecemeal bans and temporary measures fail to address the underlying crisis. “Delhi needs year-round enforcement and regional coordination,” said an air-quality expert from the Centre for Science and Environment. “Without tackling stubble, transport, and construction dust together, even a total firecracker ban won’t clear the skies.”

Delhi Chokes Again: Diwali 2025 Triggers Worst Air Quality in Three Years Despite Crackers Ban

New Delhi, October 22, 2025 — The capital woke up under a thick toxic haze the morning after Diwali, with air quality deteriorating to the “severe” category across most monitoring stations. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) touched 612, marking the worst post-Diwali pollution in the last three years. Despite repeated government warnings, awareness campaigns, and a blanket ban on firecrackers, illegal fireworks lit up Delhi’s skies late into the night, undoing weeks of progress in air quality improvement efforts. “Every year we repeat the same cycle — warnings, bans, violations, and emergency steps. What we need is strict on-ground enforcement and behavioral change,” said Sunita Narain of the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE).

Toxic Haze Chokes Delhi Despite ‘Green’ Diwali Efforts

New Delhi woke to a familiar post-Diwali nightmare today as a toxic haze chokes Delhi, blanketing the national capital in a pungent smog that pushed air quality deep into the ‘Severe’ category. The pollution spike occurred despite a Supreme Court-mandated ban on traditional firecrackers, rendered ineffective by widespread violations overnight. The city’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) surged to 445 at 8:00 AM IST, a drastic jump from the 305 (“Very Poor”) recorded just 24 hours prior. This alarming spike is attributed to a combination of emissions from illegal firecrackers, a resurgent contribution from farm fires, and meteorological conditions that trapped pollutants near the ground. Key Facts: The Morning After ‘Severe’ Air Quality: Delhi’s average AQI hit 445 (Severe) at 8:00 AM, Oct 21. Several hotspots, including Anand Vihar and RK Puram, recorded levels nearing 480. (Source: CPCB) Hazardous Particle Levels: PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) levels crossed 600 µg/m³ in many locations post-midnight, more than 10 times the 24-hour national safe limit of 60 µg/m³. (Source: SAFAR) Ban Breached: Widespread bursting of illegal, high-emission firecrackers was reported across the National Capital Region (NCR), defying the official ban. Dual Drivers: While firecrackers caused the sharp overnight spike, analysis attributes 18% of the PM2.5 load to stubble burning in neighboring states, creating a high pollution baseline. (Source: SAFAR) Emergency Response: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated GRAP Stage IV measures, banning non-essential construction and the entry of most trucks into Delhi. A Predictable Emergency: The Data The grim data released this morning confirms the fears of environmentalists and health experts. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) real-time dashboard showed a rapid deterioration in air quality as Diwali celebrations peaked on Monday night. Data 1: City-Wide AQI Spike (Oct 20 vs. Oct 21) The city’s 24-hour average AQI, which stood at 305 (Very Poor) at 4:00 PM on October 20, breached the ‘Severe’ threshold (401+) by 1:00 AM and settled at 445 by 8:00 AM on October 21. Hotspots Veer into ‘Severe Plus’ Several monitoring stations recorded air quality far exceeding the “Severe” mark, a level that affects healthy people and seriously impacts those with existing diseases. Anand Vihar: 480 RK Puram: 472 Punjabi Bagh: 475 Mundka: 478 The primary pollutant in all locations was PM2.5, fine particulate matter small enough to lodge deep in the lungs and enter the bloodstream. Data 2: Peak PM2.5 Concentration The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), managed by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), reported that PM2.5 levels in many areas saw a “dramatic spike” between 1:00 AM and 4:00 AM on October 21. Concentrations peaked at over 600 µg/m³, a level considered hazardous by any international standard. (Source: SAFAR Bulletin, Oct 21, 2025, . For context, the World Health Organization‘s (WHO) 24-hour guideline for PM2.5 is just 15 µg/m³. ‘Green’ Efforts Fail Against Widespread Violations The 2025 Diwali celebration was meant to be different. Following directives from the Supreme Court and the National Green Tribunal (NGT), authorities had imposed a blanket ban on the sale, storage, and use of all firecrackers except “green crackers”—low-emission alternatives developed by CSIR-NEERI. However, enforcement on the ground proved tobe a near-total failure. A City Under Auditory and Chemical Assault Residents across the NCR, from Ghaziabad to Gurugram, reported incessant bursting of loud, high-emission firecrackers starting early in the evening and continuing well past 3:00 AM. “It sounded like a warzone after 9 PM,” said Rakesh Kumar, a resident of Mayur Vihar Phase 1. “We sealed our windows, but the smoke still seeped in. My six-year-old daughter, who has asthma, was coughing all night. What is the point of these ‘bans’ if they are just on paper?“ Data 3: Enforcement Actions Delhi Police confirmed the challenge of enforcing the ban in a city of 20 million. In a press release issued this morning (Oct 21, 2025), officials reported: 152 arrests made for the sale or use of illegal firecrackers. Over 2,000 kilograms of banned fireworks were seized in targeted raids in the 72 hours leading up to Diwali. Despite these efforts, the volume of illegal fireworks detonated suggests that enforcement only scratched the surface. The ‘Perfect Storm’: Stubble and Meteorology While firecracker emissions were the clear trigger for the overnight spike, experts note they were added to an already-polluted atmosphere. Farm Fires Add to the Burden The SAFAR model, which provides forecasts on the contribution of external pollution sources, painted a concerning picture. “The contribution of stubble burning (biomass fires) from neighboring Punjab and Haryana, which had been low last week, significantly increased to 18% of Delhi’s PM2.5 concentration on October 20,” the SAFAR bulletin stated. (Source: SAFAR-IITM, Oct 21, 2025). This high baseline meant that the additional load from firecrackers was catastrophic. Trapped by the Weather Meteorology played its traditional role as an antagonist. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that “calm, cool” conditions dominated the night. Low wind speeds (5-8 km/h) and a drop in temperature led to a phenomenon known as temperature inversion, where a layer of warm air traps the cold, pollutant-filled air close to the ground, preventing its dispersal. Official Response and Expert Analysis Faced with a public health emergency, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) convened an emergency meeting early Tuesday. Government Activates GRAP Stage IV The CAQM immediately invoked the final, most severe stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Key measures under Stage IV include: Transport Ban: A complete ban on the entry of all truck traffic into Delhi (except for essentials like LNG/CNG tankers and vehicles carrying essential goods). Construction Halt: A stop on all linear public projects (roads, flyovers) and all other non-essential construction and demolition activities. Advisory: The government has issued a strong advisory urging private companies and government offices to implement 50% work-from-home (WFH) capacity. ‘A Predictable, Systemic Failure’ Experts argue that this annual crisis is no longer a surprise and reflects a deep systemic failure. In a statement, Dr. Anumita Roychowdhury, Executive Director at the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), criticized the reliance on last-minute measures. What to Watch Next The immediate forecast offers little relief. The IMD predicts that similar calm wind conditions and foggy mornings will persist for at least the next 48 hours. This means the ‘Severe’ haze is likely to linger over the capital until at least Thursday (Oct 23), posing significant health risks to millions. The long-term focus now shifts to the strict ground implementation of GRAP Stage IV and whether neighboring state governments can control the peak of farm fires, which is expected to intensify in the coming weeks. As the toxic haze chokes Delhi, residents are left with a familiar, choking reality, forcing them to choose between celebrating a festival and the fundamental right to breathe clean air.

Pollution: दिवाली के दिन पटाखे जलाने की वजह से दिल्ली में प्रदूषण का स्तर तेजी से बढ़ा- विशेषज्ञ

विशेषज्ञ दिवाली की दोपहर से रात के बीच दिल्ली में वायु प्रदूषण में तेजी से हुई वृद्धि के लिए पटाखों को जिम्मेदार ठहरा रहे हैं।सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट की कार्यकारी निदेशक अनुमिता रॉय ने पीटीआई वीडियो से बातचीत के दौरान राष्ट्रीय राजधानी में दिवाली के वक्त प्रदूषण के स्तर में अचानक हुई वृद्धि के आंकड़े दिए।उन्होंने कहा, “दिवाली की दोपहर से रात के बीच प्रदूषण आठ गुना बढ़ गया। ये स्पष्ट है कि ये पटाखे फोड़ने के कारण हुआ।”Pollution: सर्दियों के महीनों में प्रदूषण के कई कारण होते हैं। इसमें स्थिर वातावरण, पराली जलाने से लेकर पटाखे फोड़ने तक सब शामिल है।डॉक्टरों का कहना है कि इस दौरान कुछ बीमारियों से ग्रस्त लोगों और बच्चों को स्वास्थ्य संबंधी ज्याया खतरा होता है।गंगा राम अस्पताल के डॉ. धीरेन गुप्ता ने कहा, “सामान्य लोगों को गले में खराश, खांसी, बदन दर्द आदि लक्षण हो सकते हैं।

Smog Stories: How Delhi’s Construction Boom Fuels Its Pollution Crisis?

Delhi is expanding rapidly, with new apartments, roads, metro lines and infrastructure always under construction. But this growth comes at a cost. Though overlooked, the dust, emissions and machinery associated with construction also quietly fuel Delhi’s worsening pollution crisis. Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) on October 19 crossed the 300 mark, entering the “very poor” category in many parts of the city. In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) imposed Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This stage includes early pollution control measures, also targeting construction activities, which account for approximately 7 per cent of Delhi’s pollution. While vehicular emissions, industry, and agricultural stubble burning bear the blame every winter, construction often escapes the spotlight. Source: Centre For Science And Environment Data (CSE) Data How Construction Pollutes Delhi’s Air? Dust from Construction and Demolition - Building or tearing down structures releases a lot of dust, particularly particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), which can irritate the nose and throat and even lead to serious health problems. - Trucks carrying loose materials like sand also cover the roads with dust, which gets lifted into the air by wind or passing vehicles.

Delhi’s air turns ‘very poor’; Grap 2 enforced

Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director, research and advocacy at the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) said even though Diwali is early this year, cold and calm conditions have already begun to set in. “We have already noticed a 1.6 time increase in the daily average of PM2.5 levels since October 11 with AQI worsening to ‘poor’ category. This is when the contribution of farm fires to Delhi’s air quality is less than 1-2%,” she said. Layers of smog and the acrid sting of pollution cloaked the Capital on Diwali eve, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to invoke stage 2 measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap), as residents braced for yet another festive day marred by toxic air before the celebrations kicked off. The 24-hour average Air Quality Index dipped to 296 (poor) at 4pm, from Saturday’s 268 at the same time, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board. However, the number at 4pm progressively began to surge upwards after dusk, breaching the “very poor” threshold to touch 300 by 6pm. It settled at 310at 11pm. Weather experts warned that the situation is unlikely to abate till the end of the week. This is the first time since February 2 that Delhi’s AQI turned “very poor”. It was 326 on the day. The Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS) for Delhi has predicted the number will touch the dirtier side of the “very poor” zone on Diwali. With an increase in firecracker emissions on the day of, AQI levels will be pushed into the “severe” zone on Tuesday, it said. Experts said the impact of the additional emissions is set to hang in the air this week as surface winds will stay calm till Friday. Seasonal transport winds, predominantly northwesterlies, also aid in bringing stubble fire smoke from neighbouring Punjab and Haryana. Twelve preventive measures are undertaken to mitigate air pollution under Grap stage 2: Among them, stricter enforcement on restrictions related to diesel generator sets; restricting interstate buses (other than EVs/CNG/BS-VI diesel) from entering Delhi and enhancement of parking fees to discourage use of private transport are key. The harmful conditions are usually down to a toxic cocktail of stagnant surface winds, low temperatures, emissions from tailpipes and widespread bursting of firecrackers and the uptick in stubble fires in the farmlands of Punjab. However, data from the Centre’s Decision Support System (DSS) showed that Sunday’s deterioration was largely due to cross-boundary pollution from NCR towns factoring in 67.89% of Delhi’s total PM2.5 load. The rest, 32.11%, was due to local sources. “Delhi’s air quality is very likely to be in the ‘very poor’ category on Monday - on Diwali day. The air quality is very likely to be in the ‘severe’ category from Tuesday till Wednesday - in case of enhanced emissions from firecrackers,” said the AQEWS in its bulletin on Sunday. CPCB classifies air quality on a scale where 0-50 is “good”, 51-100 “satisfactory”, 101-200 “moderate”, 201-300 “poor”, 301-400 “very poor”, and 401-500 “severe”. According to Sunday’s data, the highest pollution load outside Delhi was attributed to the “others” category or unaccounted sources at 26.7%. This also put the contribution of stubble fires to 2-3%. Without adequate wind movement, pollutants from outside are trapped in Delhi’s air and the cumulative effect is magnified by local emissions, experts have pointed out. To be sure, Diwali this year has arrived earlier than usual and farm fire numbers only pick up towards the end of October, peaking around mid-November. Punjab on Sunday clocked 67 stubble fires — the highest single-day count so far this season for the state. There were 33 recorded fires on Saturday and 20 on Friday. Haryana logged seven farm fires on Sunday — the joint-highest single day count so far this season. The total farm fires this season so far stood at 308, according to data from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), while Haryana has logged 38 fires so far. Widespread bursting of firecrackers, green and conventional, was seen in Delhi in the run-up to Diwali. Even though the Supreme Court guidelines only permitted the use of green firecrackers within particular windows on Diwali eve and Diwali day, multiple spot checks by HT showed that these rules were visibly flouted across the Capita. Mukesh Khare, an air pollution expert from IIT Delhi, said an improvement this week is unlikely. “If current weather conditions persist — calm winds and reduced sunlight — the AQI will only worsen further through an increase in PM2.5 concentration in the ambient air. The primary source will be firecrackers. Though the authorities have permitted only green firecrackers, questions remain on effective implementation,” Khare said. Yearly CPCB data has shown that PM 2.5 levels can spike between 20-30 times the permissible hourly limits across the city on Diwali day. When conditions are unfavourable, these emissions can take multiple days to disperse. Delhi’s AQI has worsened the day after Diwali in nine of the last 10 years, barring 2022, when strong winds helped AQI improve the day after. Last year, Delhi’s AQI was 328 (very poor) on Diwali (October 31), but spiked to 339 (very poor) the day after. In 2023, it went from 218 (poor) on Diwali on November 12, to 358 (very poor) the day after. The last time Delhi’s AQI was in “severe” the day-after Diwali was in 2021, when it shot up from 382 (very poor) on Diwali on November 4 to 462 (severe) the day after. Mahesh Palawat, vice president at Skymet meteorology, said despite stubble fires not playing a key role so far, local emissions have accumulated due to wind stagnation. “This is not allowing pollutants to disperse and we are seeing a slight haze during the day too,” he said, adding that no significant relief is in sight for the coming days. Of the city’s 38 ambient air quality stations for which data was available on Sunday, one — Anand Vihar — was in the “severe” zone with a reading of 430 at 4pm, while 23 other stations were in the “very poor” zone. These included Wazirpur (375), Vivek Vihar (355), Dilshad Garden (352), Jahangirpuri (341), Ashok Vihar (330), RK Puram (329) and Dwarka Sector 8 (323), among others. Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director, research and advocacy at the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) said even though Diwali is early this year, cold and calm conditions have already begun to set in. “We have already noticed a 1.6 time increase in the daily average of PM2.5 levels since October 11 with AQI worsening to ‘poor’ category. This is when the contribution of farm fires to Delhi’s air quality is less than 1-2%,” she said.

Technical faults, tender delays cripple two of four Gurugram air stations

According to Dr Anumita Roychowdhury, director of the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), the data gaps in air quality monitoring would obstruct authorities from drawing a long-term comparative trend for policy action on air pollution. “For air quality monitoring to become performance-linked, we need robust reporting and auditing systems,” Roychowdhury earlier told HT. Only two of Gurugram’s four continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations (CAAQMS) were operational on Sunday, with the Teri Gram and Vikas Sadan units remaining non-functional due to technical issues and delays in maintenance handover, officials said. The city’s operational stations — Sector 51 and Gwal Pahari — recorded a poor air quality index (AQI) of 258, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) daily national bulletin. According to CPCB’s live dashboard, the Teri Gram station, which had functioned partially between October 3 and 14, stopped recording PM10, PM2.5, NO2, CO, ozone, and benzene levels from October 15 — the day its maintenance tender was granted. Its last recorded value was PM10 at 110.78 µg/m³ on Tuesday last week. “Due to issues with the analyzers in the advanced sensors that feed into the AQI, the data could not be properly loaded,” an official said, requesting anonymity. A senior official at the Haryana State Pollution Control Board (HSPCB) said two separate tenders were awarded to private firms on October 14 and 15 for the operation and maintenance of CAAQMS in Gurugram. Five days after the tenders were finalised, two stations — including Teri Gram — remained non-functional. Earlier, HSPCB’s regional office had been temporarily maintaining operations while awaiting tender approval. “The air quality monitors made operational after six months had persistent issues with their batteries, UPS, motors, filters and light sensors,” another senior official said, adding that the sensors were being repaired before being handed back to private firms. Officials added that two France-based companies previously managed 29 CAAQMS across Haryana until their contracts expired in December 2024. Since then, frequent interruptions have been reported in Gurugram’s stations managed by HSPCB. CPCB data showed multiple interruptions since September 30 at three Gurugram stations. Ahead of Diwali, the Vikas Sadan station recorded only PM2.5 levels, with no readings of PM10, ozone, benzene, or toluene between October 7 and 13. The station displayed “insufficient data” until October 18, when AQI values reappeared, reaching 167 and above. Similarly, at the Sector 51 station, PM2.5 data was missing between October 4 and 15, and was restored on October 16, when AQI levels touched 395 µg/m³ around 10am. According to Dr Anumita Roychowdhury, director of the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), the data gaps in air quality monitoring would obstruct authorities from drawing a long-term comparative trend for policy action on air pollution. “For air quality monitoring to become performance-linked, we need robust reporting and auditing systems,” Roychowdhury earlier told HT.

Delhi-NCR Air Quality Deteriorates as Diwali Nears: Pollution Levels Hit Hazardous Category

New Delhi, October 20, 2025 — As India prepares to celebrate Diwali, the air quality in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) has deteriorated to hazardous levels, raising serious health concerns for residents. The morning of October 20 saw the Air Quality Index (AQI) spike to 354, marking one of the highest pollution levels of the season. Environmental experts attribute the spike to a combination of factors: the burning of agricultural stubble in neighboring states, vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, and the onset of firecracker-related activities in anticipation of Diwali. “Pollution has reached a dangerous level, especially for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiac conditions,” said Dr. Meera Sharma, pulmonologist at AIIMS. “Even short-term exposure can cause coughing, throat irritation, and exacerbation of chronic illnesses.” The Role of Firecrackers and Seasonal Factors While stubble burning and vehicular emissions remain a consistent source of pollution, the approaching Diwali festival is expected to further aggravate the situation. Firecrackers release particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides into the air, which can settle into fine particles (PM2.5) capable of penetrating deep into the lungs. “Even a single day of heavy firecracker use can elevate AQI levels to over 500,” warned Anil Kumar, air quality analyst with the Centre for Science and Environment. “Given current levels, any Diwali-related spike will be extremely harmful.” The combination of lower temperatures, calm winds, and high humidity this season is trapping pollutants close to the ground, creating a dense smog layer that limits visibility and increases health risks. Impact on Daily Life and Health Delhi residents are already reporting respiratory discomfort, eye irritation, and difficulty breathing. Hospitals have issued advisories for precautionary measures, particularly for vulnerable groups. “I have asthma, and the air is already making it hard to breathe,” said Riya Mehta, a schoolteacher in South Delhi. “Wearing masks and using air purifiers is no longer optional — it’s a necessity.” Authorities are urging citizens to limit outdoor activities, use N95 masks, and avoid burning firecrackers or leaves. Schools in several districts have announced shortened hours or remote classes for children sensitive to pollution. Government Measures and Public Response The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has increased monitoring and enforcement efforts, particularly in industrial clusters and areas prone to stubble-burning emissions. Temporary bans on certain types of fireworks have been reinforced, and drones are being used to monitor violations in real time. “While the government is taking steps, public cooperation is crucial,” said Raghav Bahl, environment officer at DPCC. “Avoiding firecrackers, carpooling, and using public transport can make a significant difference.” Despite these warnings, street markets are already buzzing with firecracker sales, and early evening celebrations in residential areas have begun, indicating that enforcement may face challenges. Comparisons with Previous Years Historically, Delhi’s air quality deteriorates sharply during the Diwali season. Last year, the AQI briefly touched 380, causing hospitals to report a 15% increase in respiratory cases. Experts believe this year could be worse due to persistent stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, coupled with pre-Diwali festivities. “Air quality management has improved slightly over the years, but seasonal spikes continue to be a problem,” said Dr. Seema Bansal, environmental scientist at Jawaharlal Nehru University. “Community awareness and strict enforcement remain key.” International Perspective and Climate Concerns Delhi’s pollution crisis is attracting global attention, as high particulate matter levels contribute to climate change and cross-border environmental issues. Studies show that prolonged exposure to Delhi’s smog can shorten life expectancy by up to 3-4 years in severely affected populations. “The city’s pollution problem is not just a local issue — it has regional and global implications,” said Prof. Lars Henriksen, an air quality researcher from Denmark. “Mitigating stubble burning, transitioning to cleaner fuels, and promoting sustainable festivals are urgent priorities.” Conclusion: A Diwali Under the Shadow of Smog As Diwali lights begin to flicker across the capital, the festive glow is dimmed by a thick haze of pollution. While celebrations are a cornerstone of cultural tradition, this year, health experts and environmentalists urge restraint and responsibility. “The true spirit of Diwali is celebration and family, not compromising health,” said Dr. Sharma. “If citizens take precautions, limit firecracker use, and support government efforts, it’s possible to have a joyful festival without endangering lives.” For residents of Delhi-NCR, Diwali 2025 may be remembered not just for lamps and sweets, but as a call to action for cleaner air and sustainable festive practices.

HC bars sale, import of GM foods sans regulatory framework: Coalition welcomes move

The Coalition for a GM-Free India has welcomed the Rajasthan High Court order that restrains the grant of permission for sale, manufacture, distribution, or import of any genetically modified (GM) foodstuffs or edible items in India until statutory regulations are framed under Section 22 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The court further directed that no import of any foodstuff, edible item, or packaged food be permitted unless certified and labelled as GM-free by the exporting country. The High Court Bench, in its order dated October 13, 2025, observed that its conclusions align with the Supreme Court of India’s July 2024 judgment on a series of public interest litigations concerning gene technologies in food systems. The court has directed the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Union Government to frame and notify regulations on GM foods within six months. The Coalition pointed out a major inconsistency in the Supreme Court’s 2024 ruling, which mandated implementation of Section 23 of the Act, related to labelling, without first enforcing Section 22 that provides the regulatory framework for ensuring food safety. The Coalition stated that implementing labelling norms without corresponding safety regulations renders the food safety law ineffective. The High Court order now directs FSSAI and the Union of India to implement Section 22 “in its true letter and spirit,” and to develop standards and safety protocols for genetically modified or engineered food within a set timeframe. The Jaipur Bench of the Rajasthan High Court emphasised that no GM foodstuffs, whether domestically produced or imported—including edible oils—should reach Indian consumers without stringent legal checks, as previously warned by parliamentary committees. Earlier, the FSSAI had denied the presence of GM ingredients in certain food products even after the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) reported illegal GM foods in the market, despite labels from some companies themselves indicating GM content.

राजस्थान हाई कोर्ट ने सेफ्टी नियम बनने तक जीएम फ़ूड की बिक्री पर रोक लगाई

जीएम-मुक्त भारत गठबंधन (The Coalition for a GM-Free India) ने राजस्थान उच्च न्यायालय के उस आदेश का स्वागत किया है जिसमें कहा गया है कि किसी भी खाद्य पदार्थ/पैकेज्ड खाद्य पदार्थ के आयात की अनुमति नहीं दी जाएगी, जब तक कि उन्हें निर्यातक देश द्वारा जीएम-मुक्त प्रमाणित और लेबल न किया गया हो। साथ ही, इसने खाद्य सुरक्षा और मानक अधिनियम 2006 की धारा 22 के तहत वैधानिक नियम बनाए बिना भारत में किसी भी जीएम खाद्य पदार्थ की बिक्री, निर्माण, वितरण या आयात की अनुमति देने पर रोक लगा दी है। हाई कोर्ट ने 13 अक्टूबर 2025 को जारी आदेश में कहा कि उनकी टिप्पणियां और निष्कर्ष जनहित याचिकाओं के एक समूह पर सर्वोच्च न्यायालय के जुलाई 2024 के फैसले के अनुरूप हैं। उच्च न्यायालय ने एफएसएसएआई के साथ-साथ केंद्र सरकार से छह महीने के भीतर जीएम खाद्य पदार्थों पर नियम बनाने और अधिसूचित करने को भी कहा। जीएम-मुक्त भारत गठबंधन का कहना है कि उसने पहले ही जुलाई 2024 के सर्वोच्च न्यायालय के फैसले में एक गंभीर विसंगति की ओर इशारा किया है, जिसमें खाद्य सुरक्षा और मानक अधिनियम 2006 की धारा 23 (लेबलिंग के संबंध में) को लागू करने का आदेश दिया गया था, जबकि पहले धारा 22 को लागू करने का आदेश नहीं दिया गया था। उसका कहना है कि सुरक्षा सुनिश्चित करने के लिए किसी नियामक ढांचे के बिना, धारा 22 के नियमों के माध्यम से लेबलिंग नियमों को लागू करना अर्थहीन है और खाद्य सुरक्षा कानून का मजाक उड़ाना है। उच्च न्यायालय के आदेश में "एफएसएसएआई के साथ-साथ भारत सरकार को 2006 के अधिनियम की धारा 22 को उसके सही अर्थों में लागू करने और आनुवंशिक रूप से संशोधित खाद्य पदार्थों के संबंध में समयबद्ध तरीके से मानक और सुरक्षा प्रोटोकॉल बनाने का निर्देश दिया गया है।" राजस्थान उच्च न्यायालय का यह फैसला ऐसे महत्वपूर्ण समय में आया है जब अमेरिका अपने जीएम उत्पादों को भारत में लाने के लिए घरेलू कानूनों, नियमों और नीतियों से समझौता करते हुए पुरजोर कोशिश कर रहा है। यह फैसला यह भी सुनिश्चित करता है कि स्व-प्रमाणन (सेल्फ सर्टिफिकेशन) लागू न हो। केवल निर्यातक देश की एक अधिकृत एजेंसी ही भारत को निर्यात किए जा रहे सभी खाद्य पदार्थों की जीएम-मुक्त स्थिति को प्रमाणित कर सकती है। अमेरिकी सरकार ने पहले भी प्रस्तावित विनियमन पर आपत्तियां उठाकर भारत में आने वाले प्रसंस्कृत जीएम खाद्य से निपटने के एफएसएसएआई के प्रयास को कमजोर किया है। उच्च न्यायालय की जयपुर पीठ के आदेश में कहा गया है कि "किसी भी जीएम खाद्य पदार्थ, चाहे वह घरेलू रूप से उगाया गया हो या आयातित, जिसमें खाद्य तेल भी शामिल हैं, को व्यापक कानूनी जांच के बिना भारतीय रसोई तक पहुंचने की अनुमति नहीं दी जा सकती, जैसा कि संसदीय समितियों द्वारा पहले ही आगाह किया जा चुका है।" अतीत में, जब सेंटर फॉर साइंस एंड एनवायरनमेंट (सीएसई) ने भारत में अवैध जीएम खाद्य पदार्थों की मौजूदगी का खुलासा किया था, तब एफएसएसएआई ने कुछ खाद्य उत्पादों में जीएम अवयवों की मौजूदगी से इनकार किया था। एफएसएसएआई का यह इनकार चौंकाने वाला है, क्योंकि कुछ खाद्य कंपनियों ने खुद अपने लेबल पर जीएम की मौजूदगी का ज़िक्र किया था! जीएम-मुक्त भारत गठबंधन की कविता कुरुगंती ने कहा, "जीईएसी और एफएसएसएआई जैव सुरक्षा और खाद्य सुरक्षा सुनिश्चित करने और भारतीयों की सुरक्षा करने के अपने वैधानिक कर्तव्य को निभाने में लगातार विफल रहे हैं। राजस्थान उच्च न्यायालय का आदेश इन वैधानिक नियामक संस्थाओं के लिए एक सही रिमाइंडर है कि वे अपने दायित्वों को ज़िम्मेदारी और जवाबदेही के साथ पूरा करें। उच्च न्यायालय का आदेश यह सुनिश्चित करता है कि भारत सरकार पर अमेरिकी दबाव के कारण आम भारतीयों की बलि न चढ़ाई जाए।"

Diwali safety tips for Asthma patients:Increased risk from firecracker smoke, doctor suggests 12 precautions to not miss

Diwali is a festival of lots of lights, sweets, and happiness, but for asthma patients, this festival can prove to be challenging. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 3.5 crore people in India suffer from asthma. Air pollution is a major trigger for this disease. The smoke and pollution emitted from firecrackers during Diwali push the air quality to dangerous levels. According to the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), air pollution increases by 4-5 times during Diwali compared to normal levels. In cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata, the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaches 300 to 500, which falls into the ‘Serious’ category. Smoke emitted from firecrackers, incense sticks, and burning lamps exacerbates the problems of asthma patients. Therefore, asthma sufferers should take precautions in advance so that the joys of the festival do not take a toll on their health. Question- What kind of problems increase for asthma patients during Diwali? Answer- The smoke emitted from firecrackers releases toxic gases like PM2.5, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxide into the air. These elements cause inflammation and irritation in the respiratory tubes, which can trigger asthma symptoms. Additionally, the smoke from incense sticks, agarbattis, and lamps increases indoor pollution. This is why the number of asthma patients in hospitals suddenly increases every year after Diwali in India. This pollution most affects children, the elderly, and chronic asthma sufferers. Understand these dangers in detail in the graphic below-