New Delhi faces hazardous air quality after Diwali celebrations

New Delhi is experiencing severe air pollution following Diwali celebrations, with firecrackers causing the air quality index to exceed 345, marking it as "hazardous." This has made the city the most polluted in the world, surpassing Lahore. Despite a ban on firecrackers, many people ignored the restrictions during the festival. Authorities have struggled to enforce the ban, and some groups argue it limits their celebrations. Police seized nearly two tons of fireworks, but enforcement remains challenging. New Delhi's pollution is compounded by traffic emissions and industrial activity. The burning of crop residues in nearby states also contributes to the poor air quality, especially as winter temperatures trap smoke.