Delhi's Air Quality Plummets on Diwali, AQI Surpasses 450, Very Poor Category

Delhi’s air quality deteriorated dramatically on Diwali, with the real‑time Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 450 mark. The reading placed the capital in the “Very Poor” category, the highest level of pollution under the national monitoring system. Health officials warned that such levels pose serious risks, especially for children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions. The city administration issued an advisory urging residents to limit outdoor activities, keep windows closed and wear N95 masks if they must step out. Authorities also called for stricter enforcement of firecracker bans to curb further spikes in pollution during the festival period.