Delhi NCR Air Quality Hits 'Very Poor' Category Ahead of Diwali

Delhi NCR’s air quality deteriorated to the 'very poor' category in the days leading up to Diwali, with AQI readings exceeding 400 in several monitoring stations. The spike is attributed to a mix of parali smoke, stagnant wind patterns, and increased vehicular and construction emissions. In response, the Delhi government activated GRAP‑3 restrictions, limiting new construction activities, restricting vehicle movement, and tightening industrial emissions. Forecasts indicate that once the Diwali fireworks subside, air quality should gradually improve, though residual pollution may linger for a few days.