Worst Air Quality Forces a 2-Day Closure for New Delhi Schools

The residents of the Indian capital city of New Delhi woke up to a grim reality on Friday — a thick layer of toxic haze enveloping the city.

Worst Air Quality Forces a 2-Day Closure for New Delhi Schools

This environmental crisis prompted authorities to take immediate action, shutting down schools for two days as the Air Quality Index (AQI) soared into the “severe” category in various parts of the Indian capital.

The Seasonal Smog Woes

Every winter, Delhi grapples with a noxious smog, a consequence of cold, heavy air trapping construction dust, vehicle emissions, and smoke from crop stubble burning in neighboring states. This hazardous cocktail leads to a surge in respiratory illnesses, affecting the health of over 20 million residents.

Health Implications

The immediate aftermath of this environmental predicament was palpable. Complaints of eye irritation and scratchy throats echoed throughout the city. The air, once fresh, now hung heavy with a dense gray hue, painting a grim picture of the air quality. With the AQI registering around 480 in certain monitoring stations, the situation was dire.

AQI Decoded

The Air Quality Index is a critical metric in assessing air pollution levels. An AQI of 0–50 is considered…