Delhi smog hits highest level this year

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Deutsche Welle or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Air pollution in New Delhi has hit its highest level this year, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching a "severe plus" level of 484
• Schools have moved online to reduce traffic, and authorities have tightened restrictions on construction and vehicle movement
• Residents are experiencing stinging eyes and difficulty breathing as smog envelops the city, reducing visibility to just 100 meters

🔭 The context: Delhi’s smog crisis worsens annually in winter due to cold air trapping emissions, dust, and smoke from illegal stubble-burning in neighboring states
• According to SAFAR, crop stubble burning contributes up to 40% of Delhi's pollution
• The PM2.5 levels have reached 907, which is 65 times the WHO’s recommended maximum, posing severe health risks including respiratory and heart problems

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Air pollution not only causes thousands of premature deaths annually but also exacerbates climate change
• The crisis highlights the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices and stricter pollution control measures
• Addressing Delhi’s pollution problem is crucial for improving public health and achieving long-term environmental goals

⏭️ What's next: India’s Supreme Court recently declared clean air a fundamental human right and demanded action from both central and state governments
• Authorities are under pressure to enforce stricter pollution controls and address stubble-burning
• Meanwhile, neighboring Lahore, Pakistan, has seen slight air quality improvements but still struggles with hazardous pollution levels

💬 One quote: "Physical classes shall be discontinued for all students, apart from Class 10 and 12" – Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, announcing emergency measures to combat pollution

📈 One stat: PM2.5 levels in Delhi reached 907 on Monday, 65 times higher than the WHO’s recommended limit of 15 for a 24-hour period

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