Breathing Healthy After Diwali: Tackling Pollution in Delhi-NCR
- Pintu Rai
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
The festive lights of Diwali may have dimmed, but in cities like Delhi, Noida and Greater Noida the air has turned an unwelcome shade of grey. With the air quality index (AQI) entering “very poor” and even “severe” territory, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been triggered across Delhi-NCR in October 2025 to curb the worst of the smog. Authorities have imposed strict restrictions: dust control at construction sites, bans on open burning of waste, tighter standards for diesel vehicles and generators, and more sweeping and water‐sprinkling of roads.

Source: JagranJosh
What You Can Do: Five Smart Moves
1. Limit outdoor exposure On days when AQI is above 300, stay indoors as much as possible. Vulnerable groups, children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues should be extra careful. Use air purifiers or even a well‐sealed window if you can.
2. Wear a protective mask outside If you must step out (e.g., for groceries in Noida/Greater Noida), wear a good-quality mask (N95 or equivalent). Even a short walk can expose you to harmful PM2.5 particles.
3. Use indoor plants and ventilate wisely Small habits help: keep a few green plants near windows, avoid burning incense for hours, and open windows when air quality dips.
4. Clean up your home environment Dust settles indoors, too. Wipe surfaces, vacuum carpets if you can, and avoid using open firewood or coal stoves.
5. Monitor air quality and follow GRAP updates Stay updated with apps or websites that track AQI. The enforcement of GRAP adds urgency; be aware of when construction or vehicle restrictions are in force.
Eat Smarter: Nutrition for Smoggy Days
When the air outside is polluted, your body needs to be stronger. Here’s how to support it with your plate:
Fresh A2 milk or buffalo ghee: These provide easily digestible fats and help support lung and immune function. Read this article to know more about the unsung hero, i.e., buffalo ghee.
Seasonal fruits and vegetables: Leafy greens, carrots, beetroot and citrus, rich in antioxidants and vitamins that combat inflammation.
Whole‐grain staples: Brown rice, millets or khapli atta rotis help maintain stable energy levels and avoid sugar spikes when metabolism is stressed.
Healthy snacks: Dry fruits like almonds, walnuts and seeds are perfect for doorstep delivery and provide essential micronutrients.
Hydration: Clean filtered water or herbal infusions help your body flush out pollutants and stay resilient.
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Bringing It Home
The smog may feel like a once-a-year event now stretching into a seasonal reality, but tools like GRAP show that action is being taken. For families in Noida and Greater Noida, combining awareness (mask, home ventilation) with good nutrition and smart habits is the best defence.
Because while you can’t always change the air outside, you can change how you respond inside. Your plate, your habits, your life style, everything matters.



