Heartbreaking Smog Engulfs Delhi: Relentless Diwali Firecracker Bursts Worsen Air Pollution Crisis
Amid Diwali celebrations on October 31, 2024, Delhi grappled with severe air pollution, as the city was engulfed in dense smog due to relentless firecracker use, despite a government-imposed ban. The air quality index (AQI) plummeted to ‘very poor’ levels, reaching 330 at 10 PM, with certain areas like Anand Vihar entering the ‘severe’ category. The hazardous PM2.5 levels posed significant health risks, particularly to vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
Efforts by the Delhi government, including the deployment of 377 enforcement teams and collaboration with resident associations, largely failed to curb the widespread defiance of the firecracker ban. Neighbourhoods across east and west Delhi, such as Jaunapur and Punjabi Bagh, reported large-scale violations, lighting up the night sky with fireworks.
While surrounding areas like Noida and Gurugram recorded relatively lower pollution levels, Delhi’s air quality deterioration was exacerbated by stubble burning in neighboring Punjab and Haryana, vehicular emissions, and adverse weather conditions. This year’s smog brought back memories of the severe pollution levels of 2020.
Despite concerted efforts from authorities, Diwali in Delhi continues to witness spikes in pollution, underscoring a persistent challenge in managing the capital’s air quality during the festive season. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee forecasts further escalation in pollution levels in early November due to increased incidents of stubble burning.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Delhi/relentless-firecracker-bursting-shrouds-delhi-in-smog/article68818099.ece
Category : Delhi
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