Schools in New Delhi will be closed for a week and construction sites for four days, the Indian capital’s chief minister said yesterday, as the city tries to protect people in a worsening air pollution crisis.
Arvind Kejriwal said talks on a potential complete lockdown in the capital were also underway, but any decision would only be taken after consultation with the central government.
Air quality in Delhi, often ranked the world’s most polluted capital, has declined due to crop stubble burning, emissions from transport, coal-fired plants outside the city and other industry, as well as open garbage burning and dust.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in and around city has worsened to 470-499 on a scale of 500, according to federal pollution control board data yesterday.
“We have been forced to wear masks at home also, the situation is very serious,” said Chief Justice of India V Ramana, the top legal officer in the Supreme Court.
The court was hearing a plea filed by a student over the worsening air quality.
Chief Justice Ramana said the government should consider a two-day lockdown to protect citizens and inform the court tomorrow about emergency steps to improve air quality
“How will we live otherwise?” the top judge added.
A cyclist makes his way along a road under heavy smog in New Delhi.
