Delhi Air Quality Index Hits 377 Ahead of Festival

Delhi recorded an air quality index of 377 on Wednesday, placing the city in the very poor category.

The reading signals a sharp decline in air quality as winter settles over the capital.

Officials activated Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan on Wednesday.

This emergency framework introduces strict controls as pollution levels rise.

Current measures include intensified road cleaning and higher parking fees.

Authorities aim to discourage private car journeys by expanding public transport options.

The Delhi Metro has added 20 weekday train trips to help move commuters.

Government office hours have also been staggered to reduce traffic congestion.

The current pollution spike follows what was reported as Delhi's cleanest October in eight years.

Experts link the recent deterioration to lower temperatures and weak winds.

Increased burning of crop residue in the neighboring states of Punjab and Haryana also contributes to the issue.

Rain and stronger winds from a recent storm initially helped disperse the pollution in the region. However, northwesterly winds subsequently carried smoke from agricultural fires toward the capital. Vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions are additional factors in the winter pollution pattern. India's pollution watchdog categorizes index readings from 301 to 400 as very poor. Readings above 400 are classified as severe. The index tracks eight major pollutants, including PM2.5 particles. These particles are approximately 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair. They can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause respiratory problems. Extended exposure aggravates existing illnesses, particularly among children and older adults. Diwali celebrations are expected to add to the pollution levels in the coming days. Lamps, lights, and fireworks release fine particles and harmful gases during the festival. Last year's festival was followed by toxic haze in Delhi despite court instructions. Authorities previously restricted fireworks by banning their manufacture, sale, and use. Enforcement of these restrictions has remained difficult in past years. On Monday, India's Supreme Court permitted certified green firecrackers for a limited period. These products are allowed in Delhi and neighboring areas under specific conditions. On November 7 and 8, the use of these firecrackers is restricted to two specific time windows. The allowed times are 06:00 to 07:00 and 20:00 to 22:00 local time. The court also prohibited fireworks within 300 meters of hospitals and care homes. Schools and other designated silence zones are also protected areas. Green firecrackers contain modified chemical formulations to reduce emissions. They must display QR codes that allow buyers to check manufacturer details and certification. The Supreme Court noted that conventional crackers were often marketed as green products during previous bans. Police patrols are ordered in designated sales areas to enforce the rules. Random inspections of QR codes are required to verify product authenticity. Illegal fireworks are subject to seizure under the new court order. Delhi has previously used hybrid schooling and work-from-home orders during severe pollution episodes. Restrictions on certain vehicles have also been implemented during past high-pollution events. Mumbai has experienced elevated pollution levels over the past month as well. The coastal city recorded an index of 322 on October 24. Low wind speeds, construction dust, and burning garbage contributed to the increase in Mumbai. Pollution arriving from neighboring regions also affected the city's air quality. Mumbai's air quality improved after nearly two weeks of smog. Residents posted images and videos of the haze on social media during that period. On Wednesday, Mumbai recorded a satisfactory index reading of 89. Neighboring Navi Mumbai registered an index of 118, placing it in the moderate category.