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Weather
Delhi's AQI Near 2,000 After Diwali Fireworks, Monday Expected to Worsen
✍️ News18
🗓 09 Nov 2026, 07:36 AM
👁 17
Air quality in Delhi has surged to an AQI of almost 2,000 following Diwali celebrations, and officials warn that levels could rise further on Monday.
The Delhi Pollution Control Committee reported that the Air Quality Index (AQI) across the capital has climbed to nearly 2,000 in the aftermath of Diwali fireworks. Such a reading places the city in the "severe" to "hazardous" bracket, prompting health advisories for residents, especially those with respiratory conditions.
Meteorological data shows that stagnant air and low wind speeds are trapping pollutants close to the ground, while the residual smoke from firecrackers adds to the particulate load. The committee has urged citizens to limit outdoor activities, keep windows closed, and use N95 masks when stepping out.
Authorities have also deployed additional monitoring stations and are coordinating with the Delhi Municipal Corporation to enforce a temporary ban on further firecracker use. The situation is expected to deteriorate on Monday as temperatures rise and wind patterns remain unfavorable, according to the latest forecasts.
Medical facilities across the city have been alerted to prepare for a possible surge in patients reporting breathing difficulties. The government continues to monitor the situation and will issue further directives if air quality worsens.
Meteorological data shows that stagnant air and low wind speeds are trapping pollutants close to the ground, while the residual smoke from firecrackers adds to the particulate load. The committee has urged citizens to limit outdoor activities, keep windows closed, and use N95 masks when stepping out.
Authorities have also deployed additional monitoring stations and are coordinating with the Delhi Municipal Corporation to enforce a temporary ban on further firecracker use. The situation is expected to deteriorate on Monday as temperatures rise and wind patterns remain unfavorable, according to the latest forecasts.
Medical facilities across the city have been alerted to prepare for a possible surge in patients reporting breathing difficulties. The government continues to monitor the situation and will issue further directives if air quality worsens.