New Delhi was blanketed in a toxic haze today (02), increasing fears of another public health emergency in the capital. Government agencies have warned that despite efforts for reduction, pollution levels could worsen over the coming days.
In the capital’s Anand Vihar area, the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 415 on a scale of 500, indicating “severe” pollution levels that poses a threat to healthy individuals and those with existing ailments. AQI between 0-50 is considered healthy.
The decrease in air quality during the winter months is often accompanies by an increase in respiratory illnesses, resulting in school and factory closures.
It has been announced by the New Delhi government that there will be a ban on the entry of diesel buses, with construction activities to be halted if the situation persists.
New Delhi and Pakistan’s Lahore on Thursday topped a real-time list of the world’s most polluted cities compiled by Swiss group IQAir, with AQI levels above 400. Mumbai also features among the world’s 15 most polluted cities.
As fans flock to stadiums across Indian cities, the worsening air quality has cast a shadow over the cricket World Cup.
Despite the AQI in Mumbai hovering around the 200 mark ahead of today’s match between between India and Sri Lanka, the city is still expected to welcome large crowds as it hosts the semifinal of the tournament on Nov. 15.
As a measure to mitigate pollution levels, India’s cricket board (BCCI) this week announced a ban on firework displays during the remaining matches of the tournament.
Concern about the toxic air have been expressed by players, with England’s Joe Root complaining of breathing difficulties during a game and India’s Rohit Sharma urging change for “future generations”.
Source: Reuters
