October 22, 2025

Delhi's air turned thick and heavy right after Diwali, leaving many residents gasping for fresh air. Breathing problems and eye irritation are common as pollution soars alarmingly. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) revealed shocking Air Quality Index (AQI) numbers. While an AQI under 50 is good, Delhi's AQI shot up to 359 at 10 am on Tuesday, with hotspots like Bawana hitting 432, Jahangirpuri at 405, Ashok Vihar and Wazirpur both at 408—places now trapped in the 'Severe' pollution zone. Residents aren't happy about this smoggy nightmare. Sagar, a Delhi citizen, told ANI, "Pollution hasn't just been increasing today; it's been increasing for years. Everyone blames politicians, but the people themselves are like this. People aren't improving themselves. You'll get firecrackers, but it's up to you whether to burst them or not. Then they'll complain that the government isn't doing anything... There are problems in breathing, irritation in eyes." Another local runner, Ashish Ranjan, shared his struggle: "There are difficulties in breathing during running time. I cannot breathe properly." Meanwhile, a third resident emphasized personal responsibility, saying, "It is the responsibility of everyone. If every individual takes responsibility, then the AQI level can be controlled. Nothing will happen just by the thinking of the government and agencies. As a society, we should take this responsibility and keep things under control. There were clear orders to use green crackers, and if we can adhere to these rules, then we would be doing a good service to the society." Surender Gupta noted a sharp rise compared to last year: "Last year, the pollution was less. Yesterday, when I came for morning walk, there were difficulties in breathing, but today, the problem has increased." The warning signs are clear. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) activated Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in the National Capital Region right after Diwali. This includes certain rules to try and tame the dust and smoke. Before the festival, the Supreme Court allowed green fireworks instead of the full ban on crackers. However, the impact on air quality is still visible and worrisome. Experts warn that while 'very poor' air quality can cause breathing troubles, anything in the 'severe' range—like Delhi now—can seriously harm even healthy people, especially those with existing illnesses. Will Delhi manage to breathe easier anytime soon? The coming days will tell, but the smoky veil shows how we all need to pitch in—or pay the price.

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Tags: Delhi air pollution, Diwali fireworks, Aqi levels, Breathing problems, Green crackers, Air quality,