Air pollution in Delhi reaches dangerous levels, schools closed and construction banned
The air quality in Delhi has reached alarming levels, with the air quality index (AQI) hitting almost 500, which is 100 times higher than the limit considered healthy by the World Health Organisation (WHO). As a result, schools have been closed and non-essential construction activities have been banned in the city.
Worsening air quality attributed to stubble burning and weather conditions
The air quality in Delhi has been deteriorating over the past week, primarily due to the significant increase in stubble burning by farmers in the neighboring states of Punjab and Haryana. In addition, winds have carried the pollutants into the capital, and the decrease in temperatures has trapped the particles in the air.
Delhi Chief Minister announces closure of primary schools
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal announced on Thursday that all primary schools in the capital would be closed for at least two days in response to the severe air pollution. The decision aims to protect the health of the city’s 33 million residents, many of whom have reported symptoms such as eye irritation and itchy throats.
Pollution levels at their worst since 2020
According to the Central Pollution Control Board, pollution levels in Delhi during October reached their highest levels since 2020. Delhi consistently ranks as one of the most polluted cities in the world, with smoke from stubble burning, vehicle exhaust, and industrial emissions contributing to the hazardous air quality.
Poor air quality impacting residents’ health
Doctors in Delhi have observed the detrimental effects of pollution on the city’s residents. The Daily Mail reported that this year’s air quality life index, compiled by the University of Chicago’s energy policy institute, suggests that people in Delhi could have their life expectancy reduced by 11.9 years due to the poor air they breathe.
Summary:
- The air quality in Delhi has reached almost 500 on the AQI scale, 100 times higher than the WHO’s healthy limit.
- Schools have been closed, and non-essential construction has been banned in response to the hazardous air quality.
- The worsening air quality is attributed to stubble burning by farmers and weather conditions.
- Delhi Chief Minister announced the closure of primary schools for at least two days.
- Pollution levels in Delhi during October were the highest since 2020, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.
- Poor air quality in Delhi is impacting residents’ health, with potential life expectancy reduction of 11.9 years.
–@DelhiBreakings.com
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