Hospitals across Indian capital see surge in respiratory illnesses as air pollution worsens after celebration of Hindu festival

Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra and former Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj have alleged that the Delhi government spent public money on the devices. According to reports, the total cost of the purchase is about ₹5.

Air quality is hazardous in many areas in India, with pollution from Diwali celebrations the predominant cause. While rare, there are many areas with an AQI over 1,000. Delhi is currently the most polluted major global city with an AQI of 1,121 and is experiencing one of its… pic.twitter.com/Gv0I5ZtkLa

Diwali. Anand Vihar hits 'severe' levels due to low wind speeds hindering pollutant dispersion. Check AQI updates.

Cloud seeding is done by injecting silver iodide, potassium iodide, dry ice (solid carbon dioxide), liquid propane or salts into clouds in order to mirror ice nuclei.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 341 as of 1 pm on Wednesday, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category. However, certain localities such as Punjabi Bagh and Wazirpur recorded ‘severe’ levels, with AQI readings of 419 and 394, respectively, Hindustan Times reported.

People in the city burst crackers late into Monday night, defying a court order to use only 'green' fireworks.

A viral video from Delhi's Punjabi Bagh shows massive garbage piles after Diwali, sparking debate about civic responsibility.

Sam Pepper injured an eight-year-old girl while shooting firecrackers during Diwali celebrations in New Delhi. The incident was captured and widely circulated online, attracting social media backlash.