Air ‘very poor’ ahead of Diwali, may turn ‘severe’ if fireworks unchecked

New Delhi’s air quality deteriorated to ‘very poor’ the day before Diwali due to calm winds and high local pollution, primarily from transport emissions. The Air Quality Index (AQI) rose to 307, with some areas reporting severe levels. The situation may worsen on Diwali and November 1 if firecracker and stubble burning emissions increase.