Emergency Declared as New Delhi Faces Severe Smog Crisis

On November 18, New Delhi declared a medical emergency as toxic smog reached alarming levels, marking the highest pollution levels of the year, Arab News reported yesterday.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) soared to 484, categorized as “severe plus,” with PM 2.5 concentrations 138.4 times above the World Health Organization’s recommended limits.

Delhi, home to approximately 55 million residents, was ranked the world’s most polluted city by IQAir. Authorities closed schools and urged residents to stay indoors, citing health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.

Chief Minister Atishi Marlena Singh attributed the pollution crisis to farm fires from stubble burning in neighboring states. Experts warn that current pollution levels are equivalent to inhaling 30 to 40 cigarettes daily. The situation is expected to persist for several days, with air quality remaining in the “very poor to serious” category.