Delhi Chokes on Very Poor Air Before Diwali
Thick smog covered Delhi on Wednesday, with air quality in the very poor range. The city had its cleanest October in years, but winter pollution has worsened a week before Diwali, when firecrackers often add to the haze. Poor air can be harder on children, older adults and people with breathing problems.
Context
Context: Delhi's winter smog comes from a mix of vehicle exhaust, crop residue burning in neighbouring states, and dust, and it usually peaks from October to January when cold, still air traps pollutants. Diwali firecrackers add a short spike on top of that.