Indian government imposes fines on vehicles that cause smog
The Associated Press reported on the 7th (local time) that toxic smog covered the sky in New Delhi, India, forcing government authorities to close schools and ban outdoor construction.
According to India’s environmental monitoring agency ‘SAFAR’, the air quality in New Delhi, the capital city, on the 7th had an ultrafine dust index approaching 400. This is more than 10 times the global safety standard and is a level that has a fatal impact on health.
Government authorities are struggling to control smog that disrupts citizens’ lives. Authorities announced that they would install water sprayers and anti-smog devices throughout the region and impose a fine of 20,000 rupees (about 310,000 won) on drivers driving gasoline and diesel vehicles that cause smog.
Local medical staff urged residents to wear masks and avoid outdoor activities as much as possible, as smog can cause respiratory infections, flu and asthma.
There are concerns that air pollution will cause disruption to the Cricket World Cup hosted by India. The Sri Lankan national team canceled its scheduled training last weekend due to severe smog.
Local residents are concerned that smog will worsen due to fireworks set off during Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights, on the 11th.
In an interview with local media, Renu Agarwal expressed his distress, saying, “My daughter cannot breathe properly due to the smog,” and “Even with the windows closed, the pollution is so bad that it is difficult for her to even go to the bathroom.”
New Delhi is recorded every year as having the worst air quality among Indian cities. It is especially serious in winter as it coincides with the time when crop residues are burned.
According to Respirer Living Science, an air quality monitoring organization in India, fine dust in the air in New Delhi increased by about 32% between 2019 and 2020, and continues to increase to this day.
Source: Donga
Mark Jones is a world traveler and journalist for News Rebeat. With a curious mind and a love of adventure, Mark brings a unique perspective to the latest global events and provides in-depth and thought-provoking coverage of the world at large.