Delhi air quality stays very poor after Diwali as farm fires drive pollution rise
Delhi's air quality remains "very poor" following Diwali, with PM2.5 levels peaking at 603 µg/m³, 13% higher than last year. Traffic congestion and a significant rise in farm fires contributed to this increase. Unlike previous years, pollution levels rose sharply on Diwali night but dissipated quickly the next day. Warm weather and good wind conditions helped reduce PM2.5 levels to 97 µg/m³ by noon on November 1. Farm fires surged from 60 to 605 on Diwali, with Punjab responsible for 80% of incidents. Nitrogen dioxide levels also increased, indicating higher traffic congestion compared to previous years.