Firecracker ban goes for a toss post-Diwali as AQI breaches “Severe” mark

Pusa area has AQI of 627 PM2.5

New Delhi, Nov. 5 (www.delhicrown.com): Pollution levels in Delhi were in the “Severe” category on Friday morning with the Air Quality Index (AQI) breaching the 500-mark in terms of PM2.5, a day after Diwali night.

Skies over Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) were heavy with smoke after people disregarded a government ban not to burst firecrackers. Pollution levels were further compounded by fumes arising from stubble burning reported from the outskirts of the national capital.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), 11 places in Delhi-NCR recorded PM2.5 levels of around 500, or more. Pusa in central Delhi recorded an AQI of 627 PM2.5.

The air quality in Central Delhi, particularly in the upscale business district of Janpath, was in the “Hazardous” category on Friday morning, with PM2.5 concentration recorded at 655.07.

As per government standards, PM2.5 concentrations over 400 are marked as “Severe.” People across the capital and its suburbs complained of watery eyes and throat itching due to the very heavy layer of smog engulfing the environment.

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