Delhi AQI: Delhi’s Air Quality Index has reached 183, classified as “unhealthy,” and is predicted to spike beyond 301—deemed “hazardous”—during Diwali celebrations, prompting health experts to issue safety recommendations as the festival of lights approaches.
Delhi AQI Pollution Spike Concerns
Diwali celebrations traditionally see increased air pollution due to firecracker usage, which releases harmful materials including sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, heavy metals, and particulate matter (PM2.5).
The pollution is compounded by cold weather and slower air movement during this season.
Health Impact Data
A landmark Karolinska Institutet study using 2009-2019 data estimated 3.8 million deaths in India were linked to air pollution exceeding India’s air quality guidelines (PM₂.₅ > 40 µg/m³). WHO’s global air-quality guidance warns that both short-term and long-term PM2.5 exposures increase risks of respiratory illness, heart attacks, strokes, and other health harms.
Acute health issues from Diwali air pollution include increased breathlessness, chest discomfort, dizziness from low oxygen intake, poor sleep, and fatigue.
Regulatory Measures
The Central Pollution Control Board has permitted only green crackers in Delhi-NCR, restricting usage to October 18-21 between 6 PM and 10 PM.
Expert Safety Recommendations
Health experts recommend seven protective measures against dipping Delhi AQI:
- Monitor AQI: Minimize outdoor time when air quality reaches “poor” or “very poor” levels, especially during evenings.
- Avoid Fireworks Displays: Stay indoors or maintain distance, particularly for children, infants, and elderly individuals.
- Use Proper Masks: Wear certified N95/FFP2 respirators for unavoidable outdoor exposure, as surgical or cloth masks provide limited PM2.5 protection.
- Reduce Indoor Infiltration: Close windows during peak pollution, use HEPA-filter air purifiers, and avoid indoor burning of candles or incense.
- Manage Chronic Conditions: Individuals with asthma or COPD should maintain medication regimens and seek early medical advice for worsening symptoms.
- Limit Physical Exertion: Postpone strenuous outdoor exercise during and after Diwali.
- Support Public Measures: Green cracker formulations reduce emissions, but enforcement and public adoption of low-emission practices remain crucial.
Health experts emphasize that Diwali’s pollution spikes carry real health consequences, particularly for vulnerable populations, extending into winter pollution episodes requiring immediate protective action.
