Delhi Turns Into Gas Chamber As Farm Fires Surge Over Past Two Days

Delhi has turned into a suffocating gas chamber as residents of the National Capital desperately seek fresh air to breathe. The air quality in the national capiral has deteriorated significantly, reaching the "severe plus" category, as weather conditions exacerbate the problem. The temperatures during night time have dropped, and calm surface winds are causing pollutants to remain suspended near the surface, making the air toxic.

On Thursday, Delhi reported an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 427, marking the first time it had reached such severe levels this winter. On Friday morning, the AQI surged past 500, remaining around 550 for most of the day, with dangerously high levels of PM2.5 and PM10 in the air, prompting health warnings.

Lt. Governor VK Saxena expressed deep concern over the situation and urged people, particularly children and the elderly, to stay indoors. Delhi's 24-hour average air quality index reached 468, categorizing it as "severe plus." At this stage, emergency measures are mandated, including a ban on polluting vehicles, construction activities, and other restrictions in Delhi-NCR.

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) stage 3 has already been activated in the national capital, with a complete ban on construction and demolition activities. Measures such as deploying anti-smog guns and re-launching the 'Red light on, Gaadi off' campaign have been taken to combat the issue.

The demand for air purifiers and masks has surged in Delhi-NCR due to the worsening air quality. Citizens are increasingly concerned about the health impacts of the high levels of pollution.

The Delhi government has closed all primary schools for two days to protect young children from the harmful effects of the pollution. Parents are concerned as experts indicate that children breathe faster, leading to greater pollutant exposure.

Efforts to reduce air pollution, such as the installation of a large smog tower in Connaught Place, have faced challenges, with the tower being shut down arbitrarily. The situation has prompted a debate between the AAP and the BJP, with each side offering its perspective on the issue.

The deteriorating air quality in Delhi has raised serious health concerns and the need for comprehensive measures to address the problem.