New Delhi: As the Diwali week begins, Delhis air quality saw a slight improvement Monday morning but continued to fall within the very poor category, posing severe health risks. The capital recorded a 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 264 at 6 a.m., nearly 90 points lower than Sundays levels, as reported by IQAir. Yet, this minor improvement is overshadowed by the persistent air pollution issues in the region.Localized air quality variances across DelhiIn specific areas such as Pitampura, the AQI stood at a comparatively moderate 167 early Monday. However, regions like Defence Colony recorded a hazardous AQI level of 324, indicating an upward trend in pollution. Data collected from 37 of Delhis 40 monitoring stations revealed that three—Bawana, Burari, and Jahangirpuri—reported severe pollution levels.Governments response: GRAP and firecracker banIn response to deteriorating air quality, Delhi authorities have activated Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which enforces stricter measures, including restrictions on dust pollution, a shift to public transport, and an ongoing ban on traditional firecrackers. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has also enforced a ban on the production, storage, and sale of all firecrackers in the National Capital Territory until January 1, 2025, allowing only certified green crackers.Cross-border smuggling and enforcement issuesDespite these regulations, cross-border smuggling and illegal sale of traditional firecrackers, especially in nearby areas like Gurugram, continue to complicate pollution control efforts. Officials are conducting spot checks to prevent unauthorized firecracker distribution, yet enforcing the ban remains a persistent challenge.
