Smog, Smog, Go Away... Don't Come Back Another Day

What happens when there is so much pollution, or smog, in the air that it makes people sick? Governments will take certain actions to try and keep people safe. New rises in smog have prompted India’s government to take action.

In Delhi, the recent smog levels have been very high — thirty times higher than the limit defined by the World Health Organization. In response, Delhi has canceled school. The city has also grounded helicopters because of poor visibility. This can pose a problem, as helicopters have been used to combat rising smog levels. They do so by sprinkling water onto the city.

Why have smog levels been particularly bad this winter? Experts say that the burning of crop stubble by farmers is adding to the pollution. Crop stubble refers to what’s left over after crops like wheat have been harvested. The practice of burning crop stubble has been criticized and is illegal.

India’s government has been working to establish rules and regulations in order to reduce pollution. Most recently, firecrackers were banned during the festival season of Diwali. Heavy trucks are no longer permitted to drive into the city during the day. Efforts are also being launched to increase the use of public transportation. They also plan to crack down on vehicles that do not pass pollution tests.

But for now, authorities are monitoring smog levels and making sure to close schools on heavy smog days.