New Delhi Suffers Severe Air Pollution, Schools and Construction Halted

Delhi's air quality reaches hazardous levels, prompting emergency measures to protect public health.

Air pollution in New Delhi has surged to levels more than 60 times the WHO's safe limit, with PM2.5 pollutants peaking at 921 micrograms per cubic meter.
Authorities have enforced stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan, banning non-essential trucks and halting construction to curb pollution.
The Supreme Court has mandated that GRAP-4 restrictions remain even if air quality improves slightly, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Schools have transitioned to online classes, and residents, particularly vulnerable groups, are advised to stay indoors as much as possible.
The pollution crisis is exacerbated by stubble burning in neighboring states, with calls for regional cooperation and long-term solutions to address recurring pollution issues.