Delhi Faces Another Crisis as Air Quality Plummets
India's capital grapples with severe air pollution, prompting emergency measures as political leaders trade blame.
On November 19, 2024, New Delhi experienced an alarming air quality index reading of 485, marking a precarious situation for its residents. Just a day prior, the city was engulfed in an appalling peak of 1,785, severely impacting public health and everyday life. Auto-rickshaw driver Vikram Singh expressed the frustrations of many, stating how his job and well-being are affected during these toxic smog periods. The yearly crisis re-emerges as winter approaches, and while political figures announce emergency measures to alleviate the situation, the underlying issues remain stagnant. Chief Minister Atishi dubbed the hazardous environment a “medical emergency,” leading to orders from the Supreme Court that included halting construction and restricting vehicle movement. Schools were also closed, reigniting memories of COVID-19 lockdown life. Amidst these actions, many residents struggle, with the affordable safety measures like quality masks out of reach for most.
India's capital grapples with severe air pollution, prompting emergency measures as political leaders trade blame.
On November 19, 2024, New Delhi experienced an alarming air quality index reading of 485, marking a precarious situation for its residents. Just a day prior, the city was engulfed in an appalling peak of 1,785, severely impacting public health and everyday life. Auto-rickshaw driver Vikram Singh expressed the frustrations of many, stating how his job and well-being are affected during these toxic smog periods. The yearly crisis re-emerges as winter approaches, and while political figures announce emergency measures to alleviate the situation, the underlying issues remain stagnant. Chief Minister Atishi dubbed the hazardous environment a “medical emergency,” leading to orders from the Supreme Court that included halting construction and restricting vehicle movement. Schools were also closed, reigniting memories of COVID-19 lockdown life. Amidst these actions, many residents struggle, with the affordable safety measures like quality masks out of reach for most.
