Smog blankets New Delhi as Diwali firecrackers worsen air quality
Summary
Diwali firecrackers added smoke and fine particles to New Delhi’s seasonal pollution. On Monday morning, the Air Quality Index exceeded 350 in several parts of the capital, while colder weather and low winds can keep pollutants from dispersing.Key Facts
- Residents set off firecrackers across New Delhi on Sunday evening despite restrictions.
- India’s Supreme Court had allowed only approved green firecrackers during specified three-hour periods on Saturday and Sunday.
- Green firecrackers produce fewer emissions but are not pollution-free.
- The article says an Air Quality Index above 350 was recorded in several parts of New Delhi on Monday morning.
- Air pollution in New Delhi had exceeded 30 times the World Health Organization’s recommended daily limit on the Wednesday before Diwali, according to air-monitor data.
- Vehicles account for 23 percent of New Delhi’s winter pollution, while biomass burning, including farm stubble fires, accounts for 20 percent, according to India’s environment ministry.
- New Delhi has about 30 million residents and often ranks among the world’s most polluted capital cities.
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