A public health emergency has been declared in New Delhi and the surrounding NCR (National Capital Region) in view of the severe air pollution levels. Several schools have been closed as pollution levels have reportedly become 20 times more severe than considered safe by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Scores of people have been affected by breathing difficulties and other respiratory issues aggravated by the smog and air quality.
Here are the 10 things you should know about the air pollution crisis in Delhi:
Air Quality Index (AQI) at ‘hazardous’
As of 11 am on November 3, the AQI in Delhi was 832, but in nearby regions such as Noida and Ghaziabad, the situation was worse, with some of the neighbouring regions reporting an AQI of over 900. Exposure to poor air and smog can contribute to a number of significant health issues. Air quality is measured by the concentration of particulate matter present in the air. Following Diwali, Delhi has reported extremely hazardous levels of particulate matter in the air.
Public health emergency announced
An alarming number of people in Delhi are afflicted with health issues related to poor air quality. Doctors have also warned that itchy, watery eyes may also be a sign of allergies which are caused by the current condition of the atmosphere. A public health emergency was declared on Friday in Delhi and NCR. Several schools will remain shut until further notice and construction work has been ordered to stop until November 5.
Good morning from Chernobyl. pic.twitter.com/TY4gE5U229
— Trendulkar (@Trendulkar) November 3, 2019
Flights delayed
As a thick blanket of toxic smog continues to smother the city, several flights have been delayed or cancelled in view of the obstructed visibility caused by the smog. On Saturday, the Chief Ministers of Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab came together to call for the Centre to step in and implement a plan of action to tackle the air quality crisis.
India-Bangladesh match not called off
Though the air quality has gotten worse, a T20 cricket match scheduled between India and Bangladesh will not be shifted from Delhi to a new location. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was urged by several experts to shift the match to another location, however, the BCCI will continue to hold the match as planned.
Ban on firecrackers and construction work
Despite the Supreme Court banning the sale of any firecrackers in Delhi in 2018, in several areas of the city, there were reports of firecrackers being burst. Several arrests were made as police found the rampant sale of firecrackers in the days leading up to Diwali festivities. Construction work has also been banned in the city until November 5.
Rising smog affecting other places
On Saturday, reports emerged of smog from Delhi reaching Rajasthan. The state’s capital city, Jaipur, was covered by the dense and toxic smog on Saturday due to the change in the wind’s direction. The winds started flowing towards the northeast direction as a result of which the toxic Delhi air reached east Rajasthan.
Rains worsen air quality, scientists stumped
Scientists earlier believed that following the rains over the weekend, the air quality might improve. However, the light showers seen on Saturday and on Sunday did not bring improve the AQI, leaving scientists stumped. Rains are expected to occur later in the coming week and scientists are hopeful that the current plight of the city’s smog improves.
Irreversible lung damage in children
It is well known that the toxic layer of smog is contributing to respiratory illnesses. However, what was less known is the large impact of the air quality on children. Recent reports show that over 2 million children may have developed irreversible lung damage as a result of exposure to smog and horrible quality of air.
The precautions one can take
Experts have suggested that people avoid going outdoors unless absolutely necessary. Specifically, those who go outdoors for exercising have been advised to steer clear of going out earlier in the day, as this may result in exposure to high levels of pollution. Using masks (specifically masks N95 and N99) and taking anti-allergy medications are also some things recommended by health officials.
Limiting vehicles on the road
In another effort to cut down on the traffic-related emissions, plans are being made to cut down on the number of vehicles being permitted on the road.