As the Hindu festival of Diwali approaches, New Delhi has been declared the world's most polluted major city, according to a report by the Swiss air quality monitoring group IQAir. On Saturday morning, the air quality index in Delhi reached a staggering 581, significantly higher than that of Lahore, Pakistan, which registered an index of 285. This alarming statistic highlights the severe air pollution crisis facing the Indian capital just before the festival, known for its vibrant celebrations and extensive use of firecrackers.

In response to the worsening air quality, Indian authorities have taken measures to mitigate the impact on public health. Schools in and around Delhi have been instructed to transition to online classes, and residents are being encouraged to work from home. These steps aim to reduce exposure to the hazardous air, which is expected to deteriorate further due to the traditional Diwali festivities that typically involve the use of firecrackers, contributing to already high pollution levels.S2

The situation underscores the ongoing struggle with air quality in New Delhi, which has consistently ranked among the most polluted cities globally. As Diwali celebrations begin on Sunday, the combination of festivities and existing pollution levels raises concerns about health risks for the city's residents. The Indian government and local authorities are now faced with the challenge of balancing cultural traditions with the urgent need for public health safety during this critical time.S1S2