Story perspectives

Delhi's Diwali Fireworks Ignite Health Crisis Amid Smog

10/23/2025

Summary

Story summary

New Delhi's air quality reached alarming levels after Diwali, with PM2.5 concentrations over 40 times the World Health Organization guideline.
Supreme Court's decision to allow "green firecrackers" was poorly enforced, causing widespread use of traditional fireworks.
Priyanka Chaturvedi (lawmaker) criticized affluent for "revenge fireworks," worsening pollution.
Hospitals report a surge in respiratory issues among vulnerable populations, while environmental experts warn smog poses health risks and criticize the government's response.

1 of 1

Story summary

New Delhi's air quality reached alarming levels after Diwali, with PM2.5 concentrations over 40 times the World Health Organization guideline.
Supreme Court's decision to allow "green firecrackers" was poorly enforced, causing widespread use of traditional fireworks.
Priyanka Chaturvedi (lawmaker) criticized affluent for "revenge fireworks," worsening pollution.
Hospitals report a surge in respiratory issues among vulnerable populations, while environmental experts warn smog poses health risks and criticize the government's response.