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New Delhi's Air Quality Crisis Sparks Protests and School Closures

11/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In New Delhi, air pollution reached severe levels with an AQI of 425, prompting online classes for elementary schools and a construction ban.
Protests have emerged as activists say the government is not moving quickly enough.
Dr. Harshal Ramesh Salve reports rising respiratory cases among children and the elderly.
A Lancet report estimates 1.72 million outdoor air pollution deaths in 2022, up 38% since 2010.

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Story summary

In New Delhi, air pollution reached severe levels with an AQI of 425, prompting online classes for elementary schools and a construction ban.
Protests have emerged as activists say the government is not moving quickly enough.
Dr. Harshal Ramesh Salve reports rising respiratory cases among children and the elderly.
A Lancet report estimates 1.72 million outdoor air pollution deaths in 2022, up 38% since 2010.