Delhi AQI: The aerosol, which typifies the holiday, exceeded hazardous levels on Diwali 2025, arising from combinations of celebratory firecrackers, vehicular emissions, and seasonal weather patterns.
Thick smog descended upon the city, reducing visibility in many areas and causing physical and emotional suffering for the residents.
A range of air-quality monitoring stations reported concentrations of particulate matter (PM25 and PM10) way above safe levels, and warnings were issued from both the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and local authorities.
Instantly, it was a hot topic on social media and through news channels which encouraged residents to take steps to secure their safety.
GRAP-2 is Implemented
A sequence of pollution levels crossed certain thresholds, and a Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-2) was implemented and active across the whole of Delhi and the region.
GRAP-2 bans construction work, in part shuts down any polluting industry, and in part alters vehicular movement in the areas affected. Officials also provided monitoring of school closures and public transportation at the impacted schools to minimize the population’s exposure to hazardous air.
Officials also noted GRAP-2 will remain active until air quality moves to at least moderate levels, and is ultimately dependent on either weather orthe health of pollution.
Officials Advise Residents to Minimize Outdoor Exposure
Residents should stay indoors whenever feasible and limit outdoor use to activities essential to your daily routine, according to the government and health officials. Special caution was suggested for children, the elderly, and those who have “respiratory or cardiovascular conditions” as they are most vulnerable to hazardous air, they said. The state has advised hospitals and urgent care clinics to prepare for a potential increase in patients experiencing respiratory symptoms, as well as worsening asthma and other respiratory-related issues.
How to Stay Safe
●Limit outdoor activities, especially early in the morning and later in the evening.
●Wear N95 masks if going outside.
●Keep home and office doors and windows shut.
●Use air purifiers/indoor plants to improve indoor quality.
●Avoid bad air quality activities like the burning of firecrackers, stubble, garbage and anything else that increases exposure to smoke.
●Stay hydrated, eat healthy, and seek medical care if you start to feel symptoms.
