Delhi Turns Into Gas Chamber Post-Diwali: AQI Soars Above 500, Breathing Becomes Hazardous”
Delhi Chokes After Diwali: AQI Crosses 500, Health Emergency Looms: Delhi-NCR woke up to a suffocating blanket of smoke the morning after Diwali, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) in many areas breached the “severe” category, turning the capital into what many described as a “gas chamber.” The overall AQI in Delhi stood at a staggering 531, with specific locations like Ghaziabad-Narela recording a dangerously high 551. Residents reported severe eye irritation and difficulty breathing, prompting health warnings across the region.
Despite the Supreme Court’s allowance for the sale and use of “green crackers” in a restricted time frame—6 to 7 AM and 8 to 10 PM—massive violations were observed throughout the night. The sound of firecrackers echoed into the early hours of the morning, worsening air quality already strained by stubble burning and vehicular pollution. The consequences were immediate and visible, as thick smog engulfed the city and visibility dropped sharply.
Multiple areas reported hazardous AQI levels: Ashok Bihar at 493, Anand Vihar at 394, Noida at 369, and Ghaziabad at 402. A red alert has been issued across 36 air monitoring stations in the city. According to the AQI scale, any level above 300 is considered “very poor,” with prolonged exposure posing serious health risks. Authorities have advised residents, especially children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, to stay indoors and limit physical exertion.
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