Delhi Issues Pre-Diwali Advisory Amid Poor Air Quality Concerns

Ahead of Diwali, the Delhi government issued an advisory on Sunday, expressing concerns about the 'poor' air quality in the national capital.

The advisory outlines general guidelines, including 'dos and don'ts,' for the festival season, addressing health concerns.

As per the advisory, people are advised to steer clear of locations with elevated air pollution levels, including congested and heavy-traffic roads, regions near polluting industries, and construction-demolition sites.

Also, the use of firecrackers is discouraged, and the burning of wood, leaves, crop residues, and waste is not recommended.

The advisory encompasses the following:

Don'ts:
- Avoid places with high air pollution, like slow and heavy traffic roads, areas near polluting industries, and construction-demolition sites.
- Avoid outdoor morning and late evening walks, jogging, running, and physical exercises, especially during days with severe Air Quality Index (AQI).
- Do not smoke cigarettes.
- Avoid burning mosquito coils and incense sticks in closed premises.
- Avoid burning wood, leaves, crop residues, and waste.

- Do not ignite firecrackers.

Do's:
- Wash your eyes with running water.
- Perform regular gargles with lukewarm water.
- Eat a healthy balanced diet, including fruits and vegetables.
- Consult a doctor">doctor in case of breathlessness, giddiness, cough, chest discomfort or pain, or irritation in the eyes (red or watery).
- Use public transport or carpool.
- Practice wet mopping instead of sweeping inside homes and workplaces.

As of the latest data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), air quality throughout Delhi persists in the 'Poor' category. The CPCB reports an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 266 in Anand Vihar and 241 in RK Puram at 07:00 am on Sunday morning. Similarly, in the Punjabi Bagh area, the AQI stands at 233, while in the ITO area, it was recorded at 227.

In response to pollution concerns and in adherence to GRAP 4 regulations, officials are inspecting vehicles entering the national capital.

On Friday, the Delhi government launched the 'Diya Jalao, Patakhe nahi' campaign in the city, addressing worries about escalating pollution following the Diwali festival.

"Today, due to the rain and wind, pollution has reduced significantly. People of nearby cities are requested to light lamps and distribute sweets during Diwali but do not burst firecrackers. We want the pollution level to remain good even on the next day of Diwali. The campaign of 'Diya Jalao, Patakhe nahi' is starting from today," Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai said.