New Delhi's air quality reaches "Extremely severe" levels, disrupting life

Air quality in India's capital, New Delhi, has reached its worst level in recent times, surpassing the 'severe' category and hitting an AQI of 481, according to data from NDTV. The Air Quality Index (AQI) now falls into the 'extremely severe' category, posing serious health risks to millions of residents. The toxic smoke and haze caused by the excessive pollution have reduced visibility to just 150 meters, disrupting flights and train services in the city. In response, authorities have implemented stricter measures to mitigate the impact of the pollution. These include a ban on all trucks and vehicles not using clean energy fuel from entering New Delhi, and advisories for vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular diseases, to stay indoors. Face-to-face education for all students except for those in grades 10 and 12 has also been suspended. India's pollution levels are classified into four categories: 'very low,' 'low,' 'severe,' and 'extremely severe.' With air quality now categorized as 'extremely severe,' the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been activated, banning activities such as the use of coal, wood, and diesel generators, except in emergencies. Authorities have also called on the public to reduce mobility and vehicle emissions by using public transportation. Despite the ban on fireworks and firecrackers during festivals, the sale and transportation of such items from other cities remain a challenge.