According to the CPCB, the AQI was recorded at 367 at 8 am on Saturday, with Anand Vihar reaching 370, Akshardham 369, Wazirpur 328, and Jahangirpuri 324.
In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-I) in Delhi-NCR after AQI levels touched 211.
Under GRAP-I, 27 preventive measures are being enforced, including the use of anti-smog guns, water sprinkling, and dust control in construction and road repair activities.
Pulmonologist Dr. Sharad Joshi from Ghaziabad advised residents to wear N95 or double surgical masks when outdoors to protect against harmful air pollutants.
Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated that preparations for cloud seeding, or artificial rain, in Delhi have been completed.
"Artificial rain could be induced in selected areas one day after Diwali, once the Meteorological Department gives the green signal," he said.
Stubble burning in neighboring states of Haryana and Punjab, which typically begins after Diwali, is a major contributor to Delhi’s deteriorating air quality.
The National Green Tribunal banned stubble burning in 2015, and under the CAQM Act 2021, fines have been imposed for violations: ₹5,000 for less than 2 acres, ₹10,000 for 2–5 acres, and ₹30,000 for more than 5 acres of stubble burning.
Meanwhile, heavy rains continue in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, causing waterlogging in low-lying areas.
In Kerala, the Mullaperiyar dam water level crossed 137 feet, prompting the opening of three gates.
Several districts, including Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, and Chennai, are experiencing persistent rainfall.
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