Diwali 2024: AQI set to worsen after crackers post-Diwali¡ªHere are practical tips to protect yourself from rising pollution

"In some places, the AQI has increased but tonight is very important," urged Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai, appealing to citizens to celebrate Diwali responsibly. "If we all try to come together and keep one thing in mind that we have to celebrate Diwali with diyas and distribute sweets and not create problems for children and elders in our homes by burning crackers." This comes as Diwali often brings air quality concerns across India, particularly in Delhi, where pollution levels tend to surge during the festival due to bursting of crackers.

AQI touches 'severe' level

On Diwali morning, as Indians prepare their diyas for the evening, a thick layer of smog has already blanketed Delhi.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), air quality readings were alarming: Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 421, falling in the 'severe' category, while ITO, RK Puram, Mundka, and Wazirpur all showed AQI levels in the 'very poor' range, with readings between 306 and 393.

#WATCH | Delhi: A layer of smog engulfs the Anand Vihar area of the National Capital.

The Air Quality Index of Anand Vihar is 418 in the 'Severe' category as per the CPCB. pic.twitter.com/zcGVBOarZx

¡ª ANI (@ANI) October 31, 2024

#WATCH | Air quality in 'Very Poor' category in the area near Akshardham temple, in Delhi pic.twitter.com/9fJ7nfutIQ

¡ª ANI (@ANI) October 31, 2024

The CPCB warns that 'severe' AQI levels can impact even healthy individuals and pose serious risks for those with health conditions.

Addressing this at a press conference, Delhi CM Kejriwal urged people to avoid fireworks. "This is the festival of lights, not fireworks," he said. "Whatever pollution will happen, our children will suffer from it, so there is no Hindu-Muslim in this. Everyone's life is important."

Practical ways to protect yourself from pollution post-Diwali

Credit: Freepik

With air pollution naturally expected to rise further post-Diwali, here are some practical ways to protect yourself as AQI levels increase:

• Stay indoors: Limit outdoor activities, especially during peak pollution hours (early morning and late evening) when AQI tends to be highest.
• Wear a mask outdoors: Use an N95 or N99 mask when outside to filter out fine particles and pollutants. Ordinary cloth or surgical masks may not be as effective for air pollution.
• Monitor AQI levels: Use apps or websites to track daily AQI and plan activities for times when air quality is better.
• Hydrate and eat antioxidant-rich foods: Staying hydrated helps flush out toxins, and foods rich in vitamins C and E (like citrus fruits, nuts, and green leafy vegetables) help combat the oxidative effects of pollution.
• Ventilate when AQI is lower: If the air quality improves, open windows briefly to circulate fresh air indoors, then close them during high-AQI hours.
• Keep indoor plants: Certain plants, such as aloe vera and snake plants, can help improve indoor air quality by absorbing some toxins.
• Practice nasal hygiene: Rinse nasal passages with a saline solution to clear pollutants and reduce respiratory irritation.

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