New Delhi Takes Dubious Title as World's Most Polluted City During Diwali Festivities

New Delhi became the world's most polluted city after Diwali celebrations with banned firecrackers worsened air quality to hazardous levels. Despite government bans, enforcement remains weak. Air pollution is worsened by farm waste burning in northern India, trapping pollutants in cold winter air.

New Delhi climbed to the top of the world's most polluted cities list following Diwali celebrations as firework-related smog choked the city's air on Friday. The staggering levels of contamination left the capital's iconic landmarks enveloped in a thick cloud of smog.

The air quality index skyrocketed to 348, reported Swiss company IQ Air, categorizing the pollution as hazardous. Despite a Supreme Court mandate prohibiting the use of firecrackers during the festival, enforcement has proven challenging for local authorities, who face difficulties in implementing the ban.

Many Hindu groups contend that the ban infringes on celebratory customs, while officials argue that the restrictions aim to protect public health. Additionally, seasonal waste burning on northern Indian farms contributes further to the smog, as stagnant winter air exacerbates the city's pollution levels.

(With inputs from agencies.)