Tue Nov 19 02:54:42 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Chokes on Record Pollution, Schools and Offices Shut Down

**New Delhi, India** – Delhi is grappling with its worst air pollution crisis of the year, prompting emergency measures as toxic smog engulfs the city. Air quality has reached alarming levels, exceeding safe limits by more than 30 times in some areas, according to IQAir. The city’s 24-hour air quality index (AQI) registered a “severe plus” rating of 484, the highest this year.

In response, the government has ordered the closure of most schools and shifted classes online. Non-essential construction has been halted, and heavy vehicles are banned from entering the city. These measures follow a Supreme Court ruling last month declaring clean air a fundamental right. However, the effectiveness of such measures remains questionable given the recurrent nature of this pollution crisis.

The annual smog is exacerbated by a confluence of factors, including vehicle emissions, stubble burning by farmers, industrial discharge, and rubbish fires. Satellite data detected over 1,300 stubble burning incidents across six states, contributing up to 40% of Delhi’s current pollution, according to the Safar weather forecasting agency.

The crisis disproportionately affects the city’s poorest residents, many of whom work outdoors with limited protection from the toxic air. Residents like Shagun Devi, a domestic worker, and Sheikh Imamuddin, a street vendor, described experiencing severe health problems due to the pollution, highlighting the lack of access to clean air and air purifiers amongst vulnerable populations.

The situation has sparked a political blame game, with the Delhi state government accusing neighboring states and the central government of inaction. Meanwhile, wealthier residents are fleeing the city, illustrating the stark inequality in access to clean air.

Experts at COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, emphasized the urgent need to address India’s air pollution crisis, warning that the health and lives of millions are at risk. The ongoing situation underscores the need for effective, sustained action to combat Delhi’s chronic air pollution problem.

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