Tue Nov 19 07:15:07 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Chokes on Worst Air Quality of the Season; Schools Shut, Restrictions Imposed

**New Delhi, India** – Delhi is grappling with its worst air pollution of the season, forcing authorities to implement stringent measures including school closures and vehicle restrictions. On Sunday, the city’s air quality index (AQI) soared to 441, exceeding 450 in 13 areas, reaching “severe plus” levels – the highest recorded this year. This marks a significant deterioration from Saturday’s 417 and is the worst air quality Delhi has experienced in the past five days.

The hazardous air quality, exacerbated by a thick layer of smog that severely reduced visibility, has led to respiratory problems, eye irritation, and other health issues among residents. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has issued warnings, and the Air Quality Early Warning System predicts poor air quality for the next three to four days, with low wind speeds further hindering pollution dispersal.

In response to the crisis, the Delhi government has ordered the closure of schools, shifting to online classes. Restrictions on vehicles are also in place, with a ban on entry for light commercial vehicles from outside Delhi. Exemptions have been granted to essential services, EVs, CNG vehicles, and BS-VI compliant diesel vehicles. Medium goods vehicles running on diesel and heavy vehicles registered under BS-IV or lower are banned. The government is considering further measures like work-from-home options for 50% of government employees, and potentially closing colleges and non-essential businesses.

The Air Quality Commission has urged citizens to follow the Citizen Charter guidelines, and particularly advised children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or heart conditions to stay indoors.

The worsening air quality has been attributed to factors including stubble burning in neighboring states (with a reported 37% contribution on Friday), alongside unmanaged waste burning within the city. Despite complaints filed with municipal authorities, effective action to prevent illegal burning remains lacking. While authorities claim to have deployed teams to control pollution, the situation on the ground points to a serious crisis demanding immediate and effective action.

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