As the Diwali festival began in New Delhi, the air quality has plunged to dangerous levels, with smog obscuring the iconic cityscape. The annual celebration, known for its colorful lights and fireworks, has been marred by severe air pollution, raising health concerns among residents. The Indian capital has consistently ranked among the world’s most polluted cities, with experts highlighting the need for stricter emission controls and better monitoring systems.
Environmental activists are urging the government to prioritize air quality improvement, stating that political interference and lack of enforcement have hampered progress. The current situation highlights the growing public frustration with policies that fail to address environmental issues effectively. Scientists warn that prolonged exposure to such high pollution levels can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular problems, particularly among vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.
Efforts to mitigate the crisis have been inconsistent, with some measures being rolled back or not enforced properly. The pollution levels are expected to worsen in the coming days, prompting health authorities to issue advisory warnings to the public. While some cities have implemented temporary restrictions on fireworks and vehicle emissions, the lack of a coordinated national strategy has left many residents feeling helpless and concerned about their long-term health.