Delhi Suffocates as Toxic Smog Forces Schools Online

Delhi, November 22, 2024: Residents of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) faced hazardous air quality as the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded a grim 373 on November 22 with nine locations reporting "severe" levels, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Authorities responded by shifting schools to online classes starting November 18, following a Supreme Court directive, to protect students from worsening pollution.

Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi called for stronger collective action to tackle the crisis, which experts attribute to a combination of crop-burning in rural areas, industrial emissions and automobile pollution. The situation has drawn attention to the long-term sustainability of the city’s air quality, with experts warning of thousands of premature deaths annually.

With more than 30 million residents affected, the capital continues to grapple with piecemeal solutions, fueling calls for stricter regulations and sustainable measures to combat this perennial crisis.

By Catholic Connect Reporter