Despite a ban on firecrackers during Diwali night, Delhi witnessed a surge in pollution levels on Monday morning, with a smoky haze engulfing the city. Residents flouted the restrictions, leading to a jump in pollution levels, especially amid low temperatures.

On Diwali day, the city had recorded its best air quality in eight years, with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) settling at 218. However, the morning after Diwali saw a significant deterioration, with the AQI standing at 275 (poor category) at 7 am and rising to 322 by noon. Some areas, including Ayanagar, Central Road Research Institute, and Pusa, experienced pollution levels nearing the "severe" category.