New Delhi, Nov. 11, (dpa/GNA) – Schools went online, flights and trains were delayed and the elderly advised to stay indoors as the Indian capital was shrouded by a blanket of hazardous smog on Monday.
According to Swiss air technology firm IQAir, Delhi’s air quality index ranged from between 700 to 1500 through the day, placing it in the hazardous category.
IQAir data combines readings from government-run monitoring stations and its own sensors.
The Indian government’s Central Pollution Control Board data showed the city’s air had a 24-hour average of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) level of around 494 which is several times the limit deemed as safe by the World Health Organization.
PM2.5 is dangerous as it can get deep into the lungs and even reach the bloodstream.
The government advised children, the elderly and those with respiratory diseases to stay indoors. Under a graded response plan, the government has restricted vehicles, stopped construction activity and asked businesses to encourage employees to work from home.
Seasonal crop stubble burning by farmers, as well as emissions from heavy traffic, industry and the burning of garbage and fuel lead to a spike in air pollution in the city every October and November.
Despite recommendations to wear face masks, most Indians do not wear them and the bulk of Delhi’s over 20 million residents cannot afford air purifiers.
The severe pollution is expected to continue for at least six days, according to government monitoring agency SAFAR.
GNA