New Delhi: Delhi’s air quality dipped to ‘poor’ levels a day after Diwali celebrations, as residents burst firecrackers in violation of the complete ban imposed by the AAP government.
The morning after Diwali, a thick blanket of smoke lingered over Delhi, indicating rampant flouting of the cracker ban. Burnt remains of fireworks littered streets in areas like Lodhi Road, RK Puram, Punjabi Bagh, etc.
Despite the Arvind Kejriwal-led government’s awareness campaigns and strict directives, the night sky was lit up with firecrackers across the city. Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai had appealed to citizens to celebrate a ‘green’ Diwali with diyas over crackers.
According to IQAir, Delhi ranked as the most polluted city globally on Monday with an AQI of 434. At some locations like Anand Vihar, the AQI exceeded 900, as per reports.
The Central Pollution Control Board’s data showed Delhi’s air quality falling into the ‘poor’ category after the Diwali celebrations, undoing recent gains made through steps like thermal plant closures.
While the ban on firecrackers, if followed, was expected to aid air quality this year, violations have again spotlighted issues in monitoring and enforcement. The spike in pollution levels post-Diwali follows the familiar script of previous years.
Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai had said all eyes would be on Delhi’s air after Diwali. True to his word, the capital awoke to yet another smoggy morning, proving firecracker bans ineffective against public defiance.
