Severe Smog Engulfs New Delhi, Prompting Stricter Government Action to Combat Hazardous Air Quality
New Delhi is grappling with hazardous levels of smog, causing significant disruptions and threatening public health as the city faces one of its worst pollution crises. The thick smog has obscured iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal and the Golden Temple, delayed air travel, and led to a worrying increase in respiratory issues among children. In response, the Indian government has enacted a series of stricter pollution control measures aimed at improving air quality in the world’s most polluted capital.
With nearly 88% of flights delayed on Thursday due to poor visibility, authorities are racing to implement new guidelines to help reduce pollution. Among the immediate actions, non-essential construction has been banned in New Delhi, and residents are urged to avoid coal burning for heating, which contributes heavily to the city’s already dense pollution levels.
The government also plans to launch additional measures to settle airborne dust, which remains a primary pollutant during the winter season. Starting Friday, streets in New Delhi will be sprayed with water containing dust suppressants, and mechanized street sweeping will begin to reduce particulate matter from high-traffic areas. These measures aim to curb airborne pollutants and mitigate the health hazards associated with prolonged exposure to smog.
Doctors in the region report a marked rise in cases of respiratory issues among children, with higher numbers of allergy, cough, and asthma cases surfacing in recent weeks. The smog’s impact on public health has further highlighted the urgent need for effective, long-term solutions to address seasonal air pollution in northern India.
As New Delhi continues to battle these severe pollution levels, the government’s new initiatives underscore the importance of proactive approaches to reduce pollutants. However, experts stress that sustained action and further preventive measures are essential to protect the health and well-being of the city’s residents in the long run.
