Delhi world's most polluted major city on eve of Diwali

· Climate · India

Delhi was the world's most polluted major city on Saturday morning, according to Swiss group IQAir's live ranking, as the Indian capital faced severe pollution forecasts a day before Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Diwali celebrations typically involve firecrackers that worsen air quality. The ranking underscores the recurring winter smog crisis in northern India, blamed on vehicle emissions, construction dust, crop burning and weather patterns. Authorities have previously imposed restrictions during severe pollution episodes.

Why it matters：Recurring smog crises in one of the world's largest cities highlight the public health cost of South Asia's air pollution.

Key points

  • Delhi topped IQAir's live pollution ranking on Saturday morning.
  • The city faces severe pollution forecasts a day before Diwali.
  • Diwali fireworks typically worsen air quality.

Sources (original reporting)

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