Delhi witnesses its best air quality in eight years on Diwali; know reasons for positive shift | India News
Firecrackers light up the sky during the Diwali celebration. (Photo Credit: PTI)
New Delhi: On Diwali day, Delhi witnessed its best air quality in eight years, with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 218, marking a significant improvement from last year’s record of 312. This positive shift was attributed to intermittent rainfall and favourable wind conditions, leading to a notable reduction in pollutants. Prior to Diwali, the city experienced ‘very poor’ to ‘severe’ air quality for a prolonged period, culminating in a sharp improvement just ahead of the festival.
Also Read: Delhi Air pollution today: Air quality remains poor, overall AQI hovers at 204 | Delhi Ncr News – News9live
IMD predicts improved Air quality
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted improved air quality, thanks to favourable meteorological conditions and a decrease in the contribution of smoke from stubble burning, owing to the rain brought by a western disturbance impacting northwest India. Furthermore, a subsequent increase in wind speed was expected to facilitate the dispersion of pollutants.
Ban on firecrackers
Also Read: Winter air pollution around Diwali: Expert shares ways to manage the condition | Health News – News9live
Notably, Delhi’s government had enforced a comprehensive ban on firecrackers within the city, although sporadic instances of firecracker burning were reported in various areas. There remains a concern that low temperatures and firecracker usage may prompt an increase in pollution levels late on Sunday.
Main contributors to Delhi’s poor air quality
Analyses from the Decision Support System revealed that stubble burning in neighboring states, particularly Punjab and Haryana, accounted for a significant portion of air pollution, alongside contributions from transport emissions. However, there was anticipation of reduced farm fires in Punjab and Haryana following wet conditions induced by rainfall.
Also Read: Farm fires in Punjab major contributor to Delhi NCR’s air pollution: Central govt sources | Delhi Ncr News – News9live
Odd-even postponed
The Delhi Environment Minister postponed the implementation of the odd-even car rationing scheme, citing the noticeable improvement in air quality due to the rain. The potential implementation of the ‘odd-even’ scheme post-Diwali hinged on a post-festival review of air quality conditions and a possible directive from the Supreme Court.
