Smog Crisis in India and Pakistan Reaches Apocalyptic Proportions

amsterdam - Parts of Pakistan and India have been suffering from apocalyptic levels of suffocating smog for weeks, leading to life-threatening situations. Authorities are taking measures to address the extreme pollution.

Parts of Pakistan and India have been engulfed in a suffocating smog for weeks, leading to hazardous levels of pollution. This year, the smog has reached extreme levels, prompting Pakistan to seek cooperation with archenemy India to tackle the issue collectively.

The air quality index (AQI) in New Delhi has soared to over 1,300 in some areas, far above the hazardous level of 300. In comparison, Amsterdam recorded an AQI of 19 on the same day.

The high levels of PM2.5, a fine particulate matter, pose severe health risks including asthma, heart and lung diseases, and cancer. People in the region are struggling to cope with the toxic air, with many experiencing symptoms like burning eyes and respiratory issues.

The impact of the smog is not limited to New Delhi. The smog has spread from eastern Pakistan to northern India, shrouding iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal in a thick blanket of brown haze.

In response to the crisis, schools in New Delhi have been closed indefinitely, construction activities halted, and residents urged to use public transport and reduce coal and wood usage. Similar measures have been implemented in Pakistan's Punjab province.

The recurring smog crisis is attributed to factors such as crop burning, increased coal usage, reduced wind, industrial emissions, and traffic pollution. Government initiatives to combat the crisis have had limited success in the past.

Pakistan has proposed 'smog diplomacy' with India to address the shared burden of air pollution, emphasizing the need for a joint response to the crisis.

Despite longstanding tensions between India and Pakistan, stemming from disputes like the Kashmir region, efforts are being made to address the common environmental challenge posed by the smog crisis.