Tue Nov 19 22:43:40 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Chokes on Toxic Air as AQI Surpasses 500; North India Suffers from Severe Pollution

**New Delhi, November 19, 2024** – A severe air pollution crisis grips Delhi and surrounding states, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) soaring beyond 500 in many areas, prompting widespread health concerns and disruption to daily life. Despite the implementation of the fourth stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), no significant improvement in air quality has been observed.

The hazardous air quality isn’t limited to Delhi; neighboring states including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar are also experiencing dangerously high pollution levels. Many cities across these states are shrouded in smog, impacting visibility and public health.

The Delhi government is exploring cloud seeding (artificial rain) as a potential solution, collaborating with IIT Kanpur to implement the technology. The worsening air quality has also led to the cancellation of in-person classes at several universities, including Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University, and now Jamia Millia Islamia, and prompted a strike by DTC contract workers. Hospitals in Delhi have been instructed to prepare for a surge in respiratory illnesses. Reports indicate an increase in respiratory cases in hospitals across the affected region.

Punjab is grappling with a sharp increase in stubble burning incidents, with reports indicating an eightfold rise compared to previous years. The Supreme Court’s approval is required before GRAP-4 measures can be lifted.

The severe smog has caused significant disruption, with reduced visibility impacting transportation and daily life. Several areas across Delhi are blanketed in thick smog, including Connaught Place and the areas surrounding Kartavya Path. The situation is especially severe in Noida and Ghaziabad, with online classes implemented due to the hazardous air quality. Schools and educational institutions in various areas have been forced to shut down, and several Members of Parliament have taken action to hand out masks to citizens.

The situation is expected to worsen as colder temperatures and fog set in across Northern India. The severe air pollution overshadows other news events, including the announcement of the “Maha Kumbh Conclave” to be held in Delhi in 2025.

Read More