Delhi’s Pollution Crisis and Political Battle
Delhi’s air pollution problem intensifies every winter, reaching hazardous levels during and after Diwali due to a mix of firecracker emissions, stubble burning in neighboring states, and seasonal weather patterns. This year, despite an increase in firecracker use, Delhi’s air quality post-Diwali remained in the “very poor” category rather than reaching “severe.” A mix of above-normal temperatures and strong winds aided pollutant dispersion, allowing residents some relief. Nevertheless, the ongoing political blame game between state and central authorities over enforcement of pollution control measures has added complexity to the air quality crisis in the National Capital Region (NCR). Public dissatisfaction is mounting as residents navigate the health consequences of these toxic air conditions.
Delhi’s Diwali Air Quality: Firecrackers and “Very Poor” AQI
On the morning after Diwali, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 362, classified as “very poor.” Firecracker use persisted despite the citywide ban, with many neighborhoods disregarding the restrictions. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an AQI of 339 by the afternoon, an improvement from earlier readings, as wind speeds increased. This was a relief compared to the severe AQI level of 462 recorded in 2021 post-Diwali. In terms of regional impact, 32 out of 40 air monitoring stations in Delhi recorded “very poor” air quality, with specific areas like Anand Vihar and Dwarka showing readings close to 370.
The Weather’s Role: Warm Temperatures and Strong Winds
Delhi’s air quality was spared from entering the “severe” zone due to the unseasonably warm temperatures and favourable winds. In October, Delhi recorded an average maximum temperature of 35.1°C, the highest for this month in 73 years, and an average minimum of 21.2°C. These warm temperatures elevated the mixing height of the atmosphere, allowing pollutants to disperse more freely than in cooler conditions.
Wind speed played a crucial role in dispersing PM2.5 and PM10 particles—fine particulates that pose serious health risks. Initially slow at three to seven kilometers per hour, wind speed picked up to around 15 km/h in the afternoon, clearing a substantial number of pollutants. Environmental experts have noted that an average wind speed of at least 10 km/h is necessary to help disperse accumulated toxins in the atmosphere.
Pollution and Health Impact: Emergency Calls and Hospital Cases Surge
Despite slightly improved air quality, the environmental and health impacts of firecracker pollution were stark. The Delhi Fire Services (DFS) reported over 300 fire-related incidents, the highest in 13 years, largely due to firecracker use. Hospital emergency departments also reported a surge in burn injuries from firecrackers. Safdarjung Hospital, with the largest burn unit in the country, recorded 117 cases, followed by AIIMS with 48 cases and LNJP Hospital with 19. Many cases involved children who had suffered burns on hands and faces, and a substantial portion required admission for serious injuries.
Enforcement Challenges and Public Sentiment
The Delhi government deployed 377 enforcement teams to manage the firecracker ban and carried out awareness campaigns, but enforcement gaps allowed widespread non-compliance. Both local and state-level authorities have pointed to these enforcement challenges, with some experts noting that residents could still access firecrackers in parts of NCR where restrictions were lax. Environmentalists argue that coordinated efforts are required to monitor and control both firecracker use and stubble burning, which is prevalent in Punjab and Haryana during the same period.
Delhi’s Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, expressed appreciation for those who refrained from bursting firecrackers, acknowledging that public restraint played a role in preventing severe air quality degradation. However, he emphasized the need for stricter enforcement, especially in NCR regions where Delhi’s restrictions do not apply. Additionally, recent data showed a four percent decrease in PM2.5 levels compared to last Diwali, though PM10 levels rose by 11 percent due to increased particle accumulation.
Political Tensions and Calls for Long-Term Solutions
Delhi’s pollution crisis has become a political flashpoint, with local and central authorities often exchanging blame over ineffective enforcement and the need for stricter pollution controls. The central government has criticized Delhi’s approach to managing local pollution, while state authorities have pointed to external sources like stubble burning as primary contributors. This political friction has stalled comprehensive action, leaving residents frustrated by the lack of consistent measures to tackle air quality issues.
Environmentalists continue to call for long-term policies focused on sustainable solutions, such as incentivizing farmers to avoid crop residue burning, promoting eco-friendly Diwali celebrations, and enhancing monitoring and regulatory frameworks across states. According to environmentalist Vimalendu Jha, while favourable weather conditions provided temporary relief this year, worsening weather patterns in coming days could lead to another spike in pollution.
A Temporary Reprieve and Urgent Need for Collective Action
This Diwali brought a temporary reprieve from “severe” pollution levels due to favourable weather conditions. However, the underlying issues remain, as Delhi’s residents continue to face seasonal pollution crises each year. Without stronger collaboration and cohesive policies between the central government, Delhi administration, and neighboring states, long-term solutions will remain out of reach. As winter progresses, the potential for worsening air quality looms, underscoring the urgent need for proactive and sustained efforts to address pollution sources, improve enforcement, and reduce dependency on external weather conditions for cleaner air. Delhi’s experience this year emphasizes that while favourable weather can offer temporary relief, lasting change will depend on committed policy action and public cooperation across all regions.
(With inputs from agencies)
