Diwali firecrackers
Delhi's Air Quality Crisis: Green Crackers Fail as City Records Worst Post-Diwali Pollution in Five Years Despite Reduced Stubble Burning
Oct 21, 2025 11:08 pm CST
Delhi experienced its worst post-Diwali air pollution in five years despite a 77.5% reduction in stubble burning, with PM2.5 levels reaching 488 micrograms per cubic meter—100 times the WHO recommended limit. The catastrophic 212% increase from pre-Diwali levels highlights that even "green" firecrackers failed to prevent the toxic smog, confirming that local emissions remain the primary pollution source in the capital region. Experts warn this recurring health crisis demands immediate policy action beyond seasonal restrictions.
Delhi Pollution Crisis: AAP-BJP Blame Game Escalates as Air Quality Reaches Dangerous Levels Post-Diwali
Oct 21, 2025 04:08 pm CST
Following Diwali celebrations, Delhi's air quality plunged to 'very poor' levels, triggering a political confrontation between AAP and BJP. While AAP mocked CM Rekha Gupta's handling of the crisis, BJP blamed citizens for ignoring firecracker restrictions and neighboring states for stubble burning. With AQI readings exceeding 350 across the capital and 35 of 38 monitoring stations in the 'red zone', the environmental emergency highlights ongoing governance challenges in addressing Delhi's annual pollution crisis.