Health advisories issued as Delhi, Noida, and nearby areas grapple with ‘severe plus’ air quality levels, causing widespread disruption

Delhi continues to battle extreme air pollution as the Air Quality Index (AQI) touched alarming levels, reaching 500, described as “severe plus” on November 19. The persistent smog has plagued the National Capital Region (NCR) for a seventh consecutive day, with the air quality showing no signs of improvement. This has prompted the Delhi government to take significant measures, including the suspension of in-person classes for students in grades 10 and 12, with schools opting for online learning.

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) confirmed that AQI levels across major locations such as Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, and Bawana had touched the 500-mark by 5 am, indicating hazardous levels of pollution. The dense smog blanketing the city has led to a further deterioration of air quality, which has already been classified as “severe,” impacting the health of residents.

In response to the worsening conditions, Delhi University (DU) has announced a shift to online classes until November 23, while Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) will follow the same model until November 22. These actions are part of efforts to protect students and staff from the adverse health effects associated with the hazardous air quality.

The Union health secretary issued a comprehensive health advisory urging states and union territories to take preventive measures to protect vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The advisory also recommended limiting outdoor exposure and using air purifiers where possible.

As schools and universities transition to virtual learning, public health experts are calling for immediate and long-term solutions to curb the city’s pollution levels, which are attributed to factors such as vehicular emissions, construction activities, and the burning of crop residue in surrounding areas.