Delhi Steps for Emergency as Air Pollution Reaches a Hazard Level

Delhi Air Pollution Worsens: Schools Go Online and Trucks Banned

Air quality in Delhi worsened, so the government had to enforce new measures to preserve people's health. The city has hardly ever been alien to air pollution, but this time, it has been so dangerous that needful action was required. Here's everything you need to know about what is happening and how it affects all.

#### Schools Suspend Offline Classes

Closing down all the schools first and directing them to e-learning is one of the most initial moves taken by authorities. This is to ensure that no poisoned fumes are inhaled by children and teachers. Young children are readily affected once the level of pollution has heightened because their lungs are not yet fully developed. By keeping the students indoors, the government would be able to reduce the health risks. Parents have also been relieved that their children can stay indoors where it is safer.

#### Truck Ban to Cut Down Emissions

The government has taken another major initiative by imposing a ban on trucks entering Delhi, except for those carrying supply and other materials. The major contribution of trucks to air pollution lies in the huge amount of smoke particles they emit. Stopping such vehicles from entering the city, officials hope to reduce the number of harmful particles released in the air.

Trucks carrying basic commodities, including food and drugs, are allowed into the city while all other vehicles have been barred. This is a temporary embargo and shall be only lifted once the air quality is improved to a level that is deemed safer to inhale.

#### Why Pollution So Bad?

There are many reasons behind the pollution problem in Delhi. However, one of the main reasons is the burning of crop stubble in neighboring states. Each year, farmers burn leftover straw in their fields so that they could again open them up for planting in the following season. This process puts enormous smoke and tiny harmful particles into the air, which then travels to Delhi.

Other sources of pollution include many cars on the road, emissions from various industries, and dust emanating from construction activities. For instance, in winter, the cold trap pollutants near the ground, trapping a thick layer of smog that is not easily eradicated.

#### Health Risks of High Pollution Levels

When air quality becomes this bad, the air can become dangerous to everybody and not just to the ones suffering from any health condition. The polluted air causes coughing, wheezing, and irritation of the eyes among others. People suffering from asthma or other lung diseases tend to be more vulnerable to facing these complications. Prolonged exposure to pollutants in the air causes serious medical problems, such as lung diseases and heart conditions.

Because of this, the government and health professionals are calling for vigilance. People are encouraged to avoid venturing out much and to resort to air purifiers at home. At times when it's really necessary to venture outdoors, it is highly recommended to wear masks.

#### Other Measures Underway

Considering the Delhi government looking for more ways to reduce pollution, some options can be stopping construction work as it is a source of huge dust, which is the cause of bad air quality. They may also recommend businesses letting their employees work from home to cut down on the number of cars on the road.

Also, public use is being promoted and encouraged. In addition, people are being encouraged to carpool with other people. This thus reduces the number of vehicles that emit pollutants on roads. Even a short-term reduction in private use of cars can significantly improve air quality.

#### What You Can Do

Citizens can be as small as big steps in order to contribute. Reduce car usage and instead use public transport. On the higher pollution days, keep windows closed and make use of an air purifier at home, if you have one. Those who face health issues should be more careful and visit a doctor if they experience any symptom.

Delhi’s air pollution crisis is serious, but with collective efforts from the government and citizens, it can be managed better. These measures, like moving schools online and banning trucks, are part of an immediate response to improve the situation. But long-term solutions will be needed to make sure future winters are not as difficult.