Kochi: Air quality was at its poorest ratings in five years after Diwali celebrations in New Delhi on Sunday.The average air quality index (AQI) reached 376 even as there are suggestions the actual pollution levels may be on the higher side. According to data released by private monitoring agencies, pollution levels across Delhi-NCR were significantly higher than those reported by government agencies, Times of India reported.Experts tracking pollution levels said several stations failed to provide readings during the most critical hours of Diwali night. ‘Data eclipse’: Experts flag Delhi AQI data gap on Diwali night after 36 of 59 pollution monitoring stations ‘go offline.The gaps in data coincided with a sharp rise in pollution and widespread violations of the Supreme Court’s restrictions on firecracker use.An analysis by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), based on data from Delhi’s 59 air quality monitoring stations, found that the number of stations not reporting readings increased significantly through Sunday night. Delhi cabinet minister Kapil Mishra was also asked about the missing readings during a press conference. He asked reporters to share details of the monitoring stations that were reportedly not working and said he would seek action.An analysis by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), based on data from Delhi’s 59 air quality monitoring stations, found that the number of stations not reporting readings increased significantly through Sunday night. More than 20 stations were without data between midnight and 2 am, during the peak smog hours.
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