Context:
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Delhi’s air quality sharply deteriorated after Deepavali 2025, nearing a five-year low, despite restrictions permitting only CSIR-validated ‘green crackers’.
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The episode highlights persistent challenges in controlling seasonal air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR).
Key Highlights:
Pollution Spike / Environmental Concern
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Post-Deepavali, Delhi recorded PM 2.5 levels exceeding 400 µg/m³, a level not seen since 2021.
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PM 2.5 concentration surged sharply from 4 p.m. onwards, reaching nearly 650 µg/m³ by 11 p.m., coinciding with firecracker bursting.
AQI Trends Across India
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On Deepavali day:
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9 out of 293 cities monitored by CPCB recorded AQI above 300 (‘very poor’).
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The day after Deepavali:
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Cities with AQI above 300 increased to 16.
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Dharuhera (Haryana) reported the worst AQI nationwide at 462 (‘severe’).
Green Crackers Policy & Compliance Issues
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The Supreme Court allowed only CSIR-approved green crackers.
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However, widespread violations and high firecracker volume led to severe pollution levels.
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Data suggests that ‘green crackers’ showed no measurable improvement over traditional crackers during peak pollution conditions.
Meteorological Factors
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Low wind speeds and warm temperatures (23–25°C) reduced pollutant dispersion.
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Smoke accumulation affected the wider Gangetic plain airshed, worsening regional pollution.
Significance / Concerns
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Allowing fireworks during already vulnerable winter conditions appears unsustainable for NCR air quality.
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Highlights gaps in enforcement, public awareness, and long-term pollution mitigation.
Relevant Prelims Points:
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PM 2.5: Fine particulate matter ≤2.5 micrometers, capable of entering lungs and bloodstream.
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AQI (Air Quality Index): Indicator of air pollution levels; AQI >300 = ‘very poor’, >400 = ‘severe’.
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Green Crackers: Firecrackers designed to emit less pollution, validated by CSIR.
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CPCB: Central Pollution Control Board, India’s apex pollution monitoring body.
Issue + Causes
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Main contributors:
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Firecracker emissions
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Poor dispersion due to low wind
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Seasonal winter inversion effects in NCR
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Benefits
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Policy intent: Reduce emissions through green alternatives.
Challenges / Impact
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Severe health risks: asthma, respiratory distress, cardiovascular impacts.
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Demonstrates limitations of partial bans without strict enforcement.
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Adds to Delhi’s recurring winter pollution crisis.
Relevant Mains Points:
Conceptual Linkages
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Urban air pollution as a major environmental governance challenge.
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Airshed approach needed since pollution crosses state boundaries.
Disaster Management Angle
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Severe AQI episodes act as a slow-onset environmental disaster, requiring emergency response planning.
Policy and Governance Issues
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Enforcement failure despite judicial directives.
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Need for balancing cultural practices with public health priorities.
Way Forward
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Strengthen real-time monitoring and strict penalties for violations.
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Promote community-based celebrations without fireworks.
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Adopt coordinated NCR-wide air pollution action plans.
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Improve early warning systems and public health advisories during peak pollution events.
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
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GS 3 (Environment): Air pollution, PM 2.5, policy effectiveness
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GS 3 (Disaster Management): Public health emergencies from severe AQI episodes
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Prelims: AQI categories, CPCB, green crackers, PM pollutants