Delhi's air quality deteriorates after Diwali as firecracker ban is ignored
Delhi's air quality has significantly worsened following Diwali celebrations, with the air quality index (AQI) reaching 359 this morning, up from 328 on Diwali day. Most monitoring stations reported "very poor" air quality, with some areas exceeding 390. Despite a firecracker ban, many residents ignored the restrictions, contributing to severe pollution and noise. Authorities had deployed 377 enforcement teams to monitor compliance, but the situation remains critical as pollution levels are expected to stay high. Last year, Delhi experienced its best Diwali air quality in eight years, with an average AQI of 218. This year's spike in pollution is also attributed to stubble burning in nearby states.