Delhi's Toxic Haze Crisis Worsens: Pollution Levels Reach Severe Plus, Emergency Measures in Effect

A toxic haze continues to blanket Delhi for the sixth consecutive day, with pollution levels reaching the severe plus category. Unfavourable wind conditions, particularly calm winds during the night, have contributed to the deterioration of air quality. The air quality index (AQI) has jumped from 415 to 460 in just a few hours. Under the Centre's air pollution control plan, emergency measures, such as a ban on polluting trucks and construction, are mandated when the AQI crosses the 450-mark.

The concentration of PM2.5, a fine particulate matter that can cause respiratory problems, has exceeded safe limits by seven to eight times at multiple locations throughout Delhi-NCR, reaching 80 to 100 times the healthy limit set by the WHO. In response to the worsening air quality, all primary schools in Delhi have been shut until November 10. For students in grades 6 to 12, schools have the option to conduct online classes.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had previously announced the closure of primary schools on November 3 and 4 due to rising pollution levels. The decline in air quality is attributed to a drop in temperatures, calm winds trapping pollution, and an increase in paddy straw burning in Punjab and Haryana. Despite the air crisis, a study launched by the city government to identify sources of pollution and take