NEW DELHI — The air pollution levels in and around the Indian capital, Delhi, remain critically hazardous on Tuesday, with the overall Air Quality Index alarmingly measured at a staggering 494, highlighting the ongoing environmental crisis that has enveloped the city.
In response to the persistently severe air quality that has gripped the region for several consecutive days, local authorities have implemented stricter measures to safeguard public health. As a precautionary step, primary and middle schools in Delhi and its surrounding areas have been temporarily closed. Additionally, two of the city’s leading universities have announced a shift to online classes, extending this measure until November 22 and 23, respectively, as they prioritize the well-being of their students amid this deteriorating situation. (India-Delhi-Pollution)
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JAKARTA — On Tuesday, the Indonesian parliament officially enacted a significant bill that designates Jakarta as the country’s special region, marking a notable transition following its removal as the nation’s capital city.
The pivotal legislation was approved during a plenary session held in the parliament building in Jakarta, under the leadership of Deputy Speaker Adies Kadir, highlighting the government’s commitment to reestablishing governance and administrative functions in light of this pivotal change. (Indonesia-Jakarta-Special Region)
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SEOUL — Tragedy struck South Korea’s Hyundai Motor plant as three researchers tragically suffocated to death, according to a report from the Yonhap news agency on Tuesday.
The researchers were discovered by a fellow employee lying unconscious in the vehicle performance test chamber of the facility located in the southeastern port city of Ulsan at approximately 3:00 p.m. local time (0600 GMT). Despite being rushed to the hospital for emergency care, all three were unfortunately pronounced dead, underscoring the urgent need for improved safety protocols in industrial environments. (South Korea-Plant Accident)
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DHAKA — Moody’s Ratings (Moody’s) conducted a significant assessment and downgraded Bangladesh’s long-term ratings from B1 to B2, along with altering the outlook from “stable” to “negative.” The agency disclosed these critical ratings adjustments in a statement released on Monday, following an in-depth review of the country’s current situation.
The downgrade serves as a reflection of escalating political risks coupled with diminishing growth prospects, which, in turn, exacerbates government liquidity concerns, external vulnerabilities, and risks within the banking sector stemming from recent political and social unrest that led to a significant change in government, according to Moody’s analysis. (Bangladesh-Moody’s) ■
What are the long-term health effects of living in areas with consistently high air pollution levels like Delhi?
**Interview with Dr. Anjali Mehra, Environmental Specialist on the Air Quality Crisis in Delhi**
**Editor**: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Mehra. Delhi’s Air Quality Index has reached an alarming level of 494. Can you explain what this means for the health of the residents?
**Dr. Mehra**: Thank you for having me. An AQI of 494 is indeed critically hazardous. It means that the air is extremely polluted and poses a significant risk to everyone, particularly vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Exposure to such poor air quality can lead to respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, and can exacerbate existing health conditions.
**Editor**: Local authorities have responded by closing primary and middle schools and moving university classes online. Do you believe these measures are sufficient?
**Dr. Mehra**: While these measures are important steps to protect public health, they are reactive rather than preventive. The closure of schools and shift to online learning prioritize immediate safety, but we need long-term strategies to tackle the root causes of air pollution, such as implementing stricter regulations on emissions, promoting electric vehicles, and enhancing public transportation systems.
**Editor**: What advice would you give to residents during this hazardous period?
**Dr. Mehra**: I urge residents to stay indoors as much as possible and use air purifiers if available. If you must go outside, wearing a high-quality mask can help reduce inhalation of harmful particles. Staying hydrated and maintaining indoor air quality with regular ventilation are also crucial.
**Editor**: Moving to a broader perspective, how do such environmental crises impact social and economic activities in urban areas like Delhi?
**Dr. Mehra**: Environmental crises like this lead to significant social and economic repercussions. Poor air quality can cause increased health care costs, loss of productivity due to health issues, and can deter investment in the region as businesses may think twice about operating in such conditions. It’s a cycle that can deepen inequalities, affecting the most vulnerable populations the hardest.
**Editor**: what calls to action would you emphasize for policymakers in Delhi?
**Dr. Mehra**: Policymakers must prioritize the health of their citizens over short-term economic gains. Investing in sustainable infrastructure, strict enforcement of emissions regulations, and public awareness campaigns about pollution’s effects are vital. Additionally, we need collaborative efforts involving communities, scientists, and governmental agencies to create actionable solutions for cleaner air.
**Editor**: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Mehra. Your expertise is invaluable during these challenging times.
**Dr. Mehra**: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial for all of us to engage in this ongoing conversation about air quality and health.