Kathmandu, November 14. In response to the worsening of atmospheric air quality, the government Indian capital Delhi has announced a one-week shutdown to education institutions. 

Delhi’s Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal told reporters, “We have asked schools to remain closed for one week so that the children don’t have to breathe polluted air.”

Last week, the Indian Central Pollution Control Board warned the authorities to prepare for an emergency procedure as the pollution might remain in the atmosphere till November 18. Based on the findings of the board, the Supreme Court of India suggested that Delhi’s Government impose an emergency lockdown.

Kejriwal continued, “This is the first time we are taking an extreme step. Pollution lockdown has never happened before.” He has urged all government offices and private firms to include a “work from home” alternative, that helps in ensuring the health safety of the staff communities.

The current air quality index in Delhi ranges between 279 to 400. The least polluted area is Gokalpuri with samples that measure 279AQI whereas, the highest polluted area is Jahangirpuri which has an AQI value of 400. This is more than 20 times the maximum limit recommended by the World Health Organization.

Environmental activists have alleged that excessive usage of firecrackers in the Diwali festival is responsible for a sharp spike in Delhi’s air quality index.

Yesterday, the Air Quality Index of Kathmandu valley ranged between 51 to 93.