The air quality in Delhi has worsened significantly, reaching severe levels in recent days, according to data. Pollution levels at various locations in the city last week exceeded the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommended safe limit by 25-30 times.
Experts predict that the situation will deteriorate further due to weather conditions, firecracker use during the upcoming Diwali festival on Thursday, and crop residue burning in nearby states.
From October to January, Delhi and other northern Indian cities regularly experience extreme air pollution, leading to business disruptions, and school and office closures. The concentration of PM 2.5—a fine particulate matter that can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause various health issues—hit 350 micrograms per cubic meter in some areas on Monday, according to data from the government-run Safar website.
The website categorizes air quality as “very poor” when PM 2.5 levels are between 300 and 400, and “severe” when they reach 400-500. Delhi is enveloped in thick smog every winter due to factors like smoke, dust, low wind speeds, vehicle emissions, and stubble burning.
In November and December, farmers in neighboring Punjab and Haryana burn crop stubble to clear fields, adding to the pollution. Farming communities say they need financial and technical support to adopt alternative crop-clearing methods, but government programs have had limited success.
Diwali fireworks further contribute to the problem. As in previous years, the Delhi government has imposed a complete ban on the production, storage, and sale of fireworks ahead of the festival, but past bans have not been fully effective, with people sourcing fireworks from other states.
The government has also activated the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which prohibits the use of coal and firewood and limits diesel generator usage for non-emergency purposes. Authorities have advised residents to stay indoors as much as possible, restricted construction activities, and encouraged the use of public transport to reduce vehicle emissions.
