Smog crisis envelops Indian capital as Pakistani province declares state of emergency

The current air quality crisis in South Asia has reached alarming levels, with several cities in Pakistan and India experiencing severe pollution. In India, the capital city Delhi has also seen a significant spike in pollution levels, with authorities shutting down primary schools and banning non-essential construction. The Punjab province in Pakistan has declared a health emergency due to the toxic smog, with over 70,000 patients with respiratory issues being treated daily. In response, construction has been banned, schools have been shut for another week, and residents have been advised to stay indoors. Similarly, in Delhi, authorities have ordered all primary schools to cease in-person classes until further notice, and non-essential construction has been banned.