On November 18, India's capital New Delhi shifted schools to online learning until further notice. The reason is the worsening of toxic smog, AFP reported.
On November 17, levels of PM2.5 pollutants - dangerous cancer-causing microparticles that enter the bloodstream through the lungs - were recorded 57 times above the recommended daily maximum of the World Health Organization (WHO).
At dawn, they were about 39 times above the warning levels, and the city was suffocated by thick gray and acrid smog.
Every year, the city is covered in smog, which is mainly caused by stubble burning by farmers in neighboring regions to clear their fields for plowing, as well as factories and fumes from car traffic.
The restrictions were put in place by city officials "in an effort to prevent further deterioration" of air quality.
Authorities hope that by leaving the children at home, traffic will be significantly reduced.
"Physical classes will be suspended for all students, except for grades 10 and 12," Chief Minister Atishi said.
As early as November 14, elementary schools were ordered to suspend physical education classes, and on November 18, a number of further restrictions were imposed, including restrictions on the movement of diesel trucks and construction.
The government urged children and the elderly, as well as those with lung or heart problems, to "stay indoors as much as possible".
New Delhi and the surrounding metropolis, home to more than 30 million people, consistently top global air pollution rankings in winter.
Cooler temperatures and slow-moving winds make matters worse by trapping deadly pollutants each winter, lasting from mid-October to at least January.
Last month, India's Supreme Court ruled that clean air is a fundamental human right, ordering the central government and state-level authorities to take action. | BGNES
