Severe Wave of Pollution After Diwali; AQI Hits 1,760 in Delhi and 964 in Nashik; Breathing Becomes Difficult from Mumbai to Delhi.

Mumbai / New Delhi: The excitement of Diwali was marked by intense fireworks displays, but in the aftermath, many cities across the country have been hit hard by severe pollution. The sky has turned dark with smoke, the Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached dangerous levels, and breathing has become difficult. In Delhi, the AQI hit 1,760 at 1:01 AM. A thick, grey haze blanketed the India Gate and Vijay Chowk areas. Reduced visibility on the roads has raised concerns regarding public health. The situation was also critical in Maharashtra:
Nashik: On the night of Diwali, the AQI reached 964 within just two and a half hours (between 10:00 PM and 12:30 AM). In the Samtanagar area, it climbed as high as 1,007.
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: An AQI of 406 was recorded around 11:30 PM.
Nagpur: The AQI reached 306.
Amravati: Fireworks continued until 2:00 AM, resulting in high levels of smoke.
Impact of Fire Incidents in Mumbai
Across the Greater Mumbai region, 456 fire incidents were reported within 24 hours, with 142 of these occurring in Mumbai and its suburbs. Fireworks were responsible for 137 of these fires, leaving two women injured. Ban Imposed by Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has imposed a ban on rockets and aerial fireworks from November 9 to November 25. This ban also applies to residential buildings, terraces, balconies, parking areas, and slum settlements. Impact on Health: Fine particulate matter in the smoke from firecrackers increases the risk of coughing, a sore throat, eye irritation, and breathing difficulties. Doctors are advising citizens to avoid going outdoors and to wear masks. Following the Diwali celebrations, many cities—from Mumbai to Delhi—have become enveloped in pollution. Both citizens and the administration need to remain vigilant regarding this issue.