New Delhi: Delhi’s air quality plunged to ‘severe’ levels on Tuesday following Diwali celebrations, with residents waking up to a thick layer of smog across the city.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 34 of Delhi’s 37 monitoring stations recorded Air Quality Index (AQI) values in the ‘red’ or ‘severe’ category. Areas such as Bawana, Jahangirpuri, and Wazirpur reported AQI readings exceeding 400, posing serious health risks.

Authorities attribute the spike in pollution primarily to firecrackers, many of which were set off beyond the Supreme Court-mandated 8 pm to 10 pm window. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) had already implemented Stage II of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to combat rising pollution levels.

Residents reported breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and other health issues as the smog thickened. Officials advised limiting outdoor activities, wearing masks, and taking other precautions to reduce exposure.

The worsening air quality also reignited political tensions, with parties blaming each other for inadequate measures to control pollution. Experts warn that without immediate action, Delhi’s air quality may remain hazardous in the coming days.