Following the Diwali celebrations, air quality in Delhi has reached alarming levels, prompting a wave of online reactions and memes. The city, one of the most densely populated globally, has seen its air quality index (AQI) soar, with readings reported at 15 times higher than the limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Despite a ruling from the Supreme Court of India allowing only green firecrackers to be used during a specified timeframe, residents largely ignored these regulations. A particularly striking video captured the AQI inside a residential apartment at 193, while the outdoor measurement was stuck at an astonishing 999, unable to register any higher. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in areas such as Anand Vihar, ITO, Lodhi Road, and IGI Airport was recorded at 358, 347, 329, and 313, respectively, all classified as “very poor.” This starkly contrasts with the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) readings, which indicated levels exceeding 1000.
The Swiss air quality technology company IQAir reported that Delhi currently holds the worst air quality among 120 monitored cities, with an AQI of 429. Following Delhi, Lahore and Karachi reported AQIs of 260 and 182, respectively.
Reactions flooded social media as users humorously criticized the state of air quality. One user made a sardonic remark about the situation, comparing it to a gas chamber, while others shared memes highlighting the absurdity of the pollution levels. Comments ranged from sarcastic takes on the health impacts of the pollution to jabs at private hospitals and air purifier companies profiting from the crisis.
One user humorously suggested that the extreme pollution serves as an unconventional method for building human immunity, while another noted the immediate physical effects, including scratchy throats and reduced visibility, leading many to once again don masks.
The ongoing air quality crisis in Delhi raises serious concerns about public health, especially as the city struggles with the detrimental effects of seasonal fireworks. As discussions continue, the dialogue surrounding air pollution and its long-term consequences is becoming increasingly urgent.
