By Neha Yadav
Published Nov 13, 2023

Hindustan Times
In Focus

Photo Credits: AFP

Delhi AQI spikes to 'very poor' level post-Diwali

Delhi's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 275 at 7am on November 13. 

The PM 2.5 (Particulate Matter) shot up 31 times the permissible hourly standards for the ultrafine particle. 

The air quality decreased to 'very poor' category in the morning after firecrackers were burst on Diwali across the national capital despite a complete ban.

The AQI has been steadily increasing since Sunday evening after firecracker emissions started rising. Data showed that most stations recorded their peak PM 2.5 levels around 1 am on November 13.

According to the forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the wind is likely to keep pollutants trapped in the atmosphere till noon on November 13.

IMD officials said that the winds are expected to be around 4-6 km/hr during the day on November 13 and 14 in Delhi that will help disperse the smoke in the atmosphere.

Last year, Delhi recorded an average AQI of 302 (very poor) on November 5, the day after Diwali celebrations around Delhi. 

Delhi also recorded a dip in temperature on November 12, with the minimum temperature being 12.4 degrees Celsius. The mercury recorded the lowest temperature so far this season.