AMN / NEW DELHI
Air pollution levels worsened across the national capital Delhi ahead of Diwali. On Sunday the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the city soared to 400, a ‘very poor’ rating, according to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR). This marked a substantial increase from Saturday’s AQI of 255, which was categorized as ‘poor.’
In some areas, the situation was even more severe. Anand Vihar recorded an alarming AQI of 405 at 7 AM, classified as ‘severe’ and higher than the previous day’s reading of 367. Other key locations like the Akshardham Temple and the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport reported AQIs of 261 and 324, respectively, both falling under the ‘very poor’ category. A thick layer of smog blanketed parts of the city, impacting visibility and worsening air quality.
For those regularly active in the city, the impact is more pronounced. A local cyclist shared that the air quality has made it difficult to breathe and reduced stamina. “We cycle daily here, but the pollution levels over the last few days are causing us problems. We can’t breathe properly and get tired faster,” he said, adding that protective measures like wearing bandanas are ineffective. He suggested that the government could better encourage the use of public transport and carpooling as alternatives to private vehicles.
With Diwali approaching, the Delhi government has imposed a ban on firecrackers until January 1 as part of broader efforts to reduce pollution levels during the festive season.
The crisis also extends to the Yamuna River, where toxic foam has re-emerged near Kalindi Kunj. The pollution in the river has sparked political debate, with BJP leader Shazia Ilmi criticizing the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government over its handling of pollution in Delhi and highlighting the health risks of toxic foam in the Yamuna.
The rising pollution in Delhi remains a pressing concern for residents and officials alike as the city prepares for Diwali celebrations amidst a worsening environmental crisis.