Meerut, Oct. 21 -- The city lit up with celebrations on Diwali night, but the joyous burst of fireworks came with a choking reminder of pollution. Despite restrictions, banned firecrackers were set off across Meerut, causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to soar beyond 400 - a level classified as 'severe'. The dense smog that blanketed the city on Tuesday morning left residents struggling to breathe.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board, AQI in severe category, "May cause respiratory impact even on healthy people, and serious health impacts on people with lung/heart disease. The health impacts may be experienced even during light physical activity."

According to officials, while only green firecrackers were permitted, a large ...