Delhi and its nearby areas are suffering from severe air quality, as most AQI stations touched the 1000+ mark. The National Capital Region of India has been enveloped with a dense layer of smog for seven consecutive days. Areas, including Anand Vihar, Alipur, Bawana, Narela, etc., had the worst air quality.
The Delhi Government has titled this situation a medical emergency, commanding institutions to take necessary measures to ensure public health. The Union health secretary also issued a revised advisory, while schools and colleges have decided to move online until November 23. This advisory suggests preparing detailed plans at the district and city levels to address climate change’s health impact, including air pollution combat strategies.
Weather conditions and stubble burning are the two major contributors to poor AQI. According to some officials, unfavourable meteorological conditions also cause poor air quality.
Due to the poor air quality, several trains and flights were delayed or cancelled as visibility plunged. On Tuesday morning, around 22 trains were delayed, and 9 others were cancelled, according to a report by the ANI news agency.
All Delhi-NCR states, which once attracted several visitors with fine restaurants and fun zones, are now directed by the Supreme Court to immediately enforce anti-pollution Graded Response Action Plan-4 (GRAP) restrictions. This will include emergency measures like stopping construction activities, applying stricter vehicle restrictions, and promoting work-from-home protocols.
Health experts have warned the general public of a surge in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases due to long exposure to poor air quality. People are advised to stay indoors as much as possible, wear N95 masks outdoors, and avoid physical activities as of now.
