Delhi's air pollution culprit is not fireworks, report finds: vehicle exhaust accounts for 52% of local pollution

A new analysis by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) says vehicle exhaust is the biggest source of Delhi's local pollution, accounting for 52% — not Diwali fireworks, and not stubble burning.

Stubble burning contributed only about 8%

The report found that when Delhi's air quality index (AQI) hit 382 on November 6, smoke from stubble burning contributed only about 8%. Average PM2.5 concentrations were already higher than in the previous two years before Diwali.

Overall AQI 299 this morning; some stations near 'severe'

Delhi's overall AQI stood at 299 at 7 a.m. on November 11, rated 'poor', down from 376 on Monday and 307 on Tuesday. But the Chhawla monitoring station still recorded 396, close to 'severe', and 29 stations were rated 'very poor'. The India Meteorological Department forecasts foggy mornings and no rain from November 11 to 16, offering little natural relief, and younger pupils have moved to hybrid classes. Sources: The Daily Jagran, citing the CSE report; IANS / Central Pollution Control Board.