India: Delhi shuts primary schools as hazardous smog worsens

India's capital, Delhi, has taken a drastic measure to protect its youngest citizens from the hazardous smog that has enveloped the city. In an unprecedented move, authorities have decided to close all primary schools indefinitely, as air pollution levels soared to more than 50 times the limit considered safe by the World Health Organization (WHO). This decision underscores the severity of the air pollution crisis that the city faces, highlighting the drastic effects it has on daily life and public health. Delhi, a sprawling metropolis that is home to nearly 30 million people, is no stranger to severe air pollution, especially during the winter months. The city's air quality often plummets due to a combination of factors such as vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, construction dust, and the burning of crop residue in neighboring states. However, this year, the conditions have deteriorated to such an extent that the authorities have been compelled to take immediate action to safeguard the health of the city's children. The closure of primary schools in response to the toxic smog is a measure of last resort, indicative of the urgency of the situation. Parents and guardians have been advised to keep children indoors as much as possible and avoid any outdoor activities. The dense smog, which drastically reduces visibility, poses not only a significant health risk but also disrupts daily commuting and transportation services. It's a grim reminder of the escalating environmental and public health crisis that urban centers around the globe are facing, with Delhi being one of the most affected