Delhi Air Quality Severe Day After Diwali: AQI Crosses 380 as Smog Blankets NCR
Another instance of smog that looked hazardous greeted residents of Delhi on November 9, 2026, a day after Diwali festivities, since pollution levels continued to be dangerously high throughout the NCR region. Several AQI values exceeded 400, classifying them as severe, although average AQI values across the city still fell in the very poor category in the morning hours.
The CPCB revealed that the average AQI value of Delhi was around 368 at 7 am. However, individual areas were suffering much worse, as some of the monitoring stations were recording AQI values in excess of 430.
Several Delhi Areas Record Severe AQI
The pollution situation varied across the capital, with multiple locations experiencing severe air quality.
CPCB monitoring data reported the following readings at selected locations:
- Burari Crossing: 441
- Vivek Vihar: 437
- North Campus: 433
- Jahangirpuri: 433
- Rohini: 430
- Ghazipur: 418
- Mundka: 417
- ITO: 407
Other locations, including Lodhi Road, R.K. Puram and Anand Vihar, also reported elevated pollution levels.
The CPCB classifies AQI readings between 301 and 400 as very poor, while readings between 401 and 500 fall under the severe category. This distinction explains why some neighbourhoods experienced severe pollution even when the city’s average remained below 400.
Firecracker Emissions Add to Existing Pollution
Air pollution was also caused due to the festival of Diwali, mainly due to pollution caused by fireworks. According to a Hindustan Times analysis of CPCB air monitoring data, the average concentration of PM2.5 at 39 monitoring stations rose from 190 micrograms per cubic meter at 7:45 pm on Diwali evening to 259 micrograms per cubic meter at 8 pm.
It is also worth noting that the pollution was not caused solely by firecrackers. Emissions from vehicles, construction dust, industries, and the burning of agriculture residue are some other sources of air pollution in the city of Delhi-NCR.
Low wind speed and adverse atmospheric conditions make it difficult for pollutants to disperse.
GRAP Stage III Restrictions Remain in Force
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has announced Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for Delhi-NCR on November 6, prior to Diwali.
The regulations consist of restrictions on specific construction and demolition works, control on pollution causing vehicles and reduction of dust pollution. It has also been requested that stricter implementation of pollution controls be enforced.
According to the Air Quality Early Warning System, severe air pollution is expected in Delhi on November 9 and then an improvement may come thereafter.
Health Risks Rise as Smog Covers the Capital
High exposure to PM2.5 for an extended period may have negative impacts on the health of the lungs and the heart. Those who are at a higher risk include children, elderly persons, pregnant mothers, and individuals with asthma and heart or lung problems.
The people should avoid physical exercises outdoors, shut their windows in times of heavy pollution, and wear tightly fitted N95 masks when they must be out of doors. Anyone suffering from breathing problems, chest pains, or coughing should see a doctor.
What Lies Ahead for Delhi-NCR?
The situation in Delhi after Diwali indicates that dealing with the issue of pollution due to seasonality requires more than temporary interventions.
The pollution from firecrackers adds up to pollution that already exists, whereas transportation, constructions, industries, and other sources contribute to the problem.
Coordinated efforts between Delhi and nearby states along with effective enforcement are crucial for addressing the issue.
Entertainment, Apple Updates, Gaming & Global Technology
What Can Fans Expect from Daredevil: Born Again Season 2?
Explore the new season’s premiere details, expected storyline, returning characters, and what viewers can look forward to in the Marvel series.
What’s New in Apple’s iOS 26.4 Update?
Discover the latest iOS features, Apple Music improvements, bug fixes, and other changes that could enhance the iPhone experience.
How Did the UAE Help Secure the Release of a US Citizen from Afghanistan?
Explore the UAE-hosted release, understand its diplomatic role, and discover the key developments behind the citizen’s return.
What Does the Project Motor Racing 2.0 Update Bring?
Check out the latest update details, gameplay improvements, new features, and changes players can expect from the racing simulator.
How Are Apple and Google Shaping the Future of Mobile AI?
Explore Google’s Gemini distillation technology, Apple’s AI strategy, and how the competition could influence the next generation of mobile AI experiences.
