New Delhi, Oct. 22 -- In the weekend leading to Diwali, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) collected over 14,000 metric tonnes of solid waste on both October 18 and 19, marking a spike of more than 2,500 tonnes per day compared to the city's average daily collection, officials said on Monday.

Data shared by MCD showed that a total of 14,536 metric tonnes of waste was collected on Saturday and 14,147 tonnes on Sunday, against the usual 11,500 tonnes per day.

An MCD official, who did not wish to be named, said the surge was driven by increased consumption and celebrations during the festive week.

"During Diwali and Bhai Dooj, more waste is generated because of gifts, packaging, decorations, and gatherings. Cardboard boxes, wrapping...