Delhi NCR Chokes Under Toxic Smog As Health Crisis Deepens; Court Questions Govt Preparedness

Delhi-NCR is once again engulfed in a dangerous cloud of pollution, pushing air quality into the severe category and creating a public health emergency. Thick smog has covered major areas including India Gate, Akshardham, and Anand Vihar, reducing visibility and forcing residents to inhale toxic air. Hospitals have reported a surge in OPD cases, emergency visits, and even ICU admissions due to acute breathing problems. Despite restrictions under GRAP-IV—such as construction bans, road checks, and continuous water sprinkling—pollution levels continue to rise, raising concerns over administrative lapses. During the hearing, the High Court questioned why the government repeatedly fails to prepare for pollution months despite knowing the severity. The Delhi government has been given four weeks to respond and has also been instructed to redesign next year’s annual sports calendar to ensure no outdoor events are conducted during peak pollution periods. Meanwhile in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur, two nilgai straying from fields caused a major road accident, leaving three bike riders seriously injured. In Madhya Pradesh, authorities have initiated action against alleged illegal construction linked to Al-Falah University chairman Javed Siddiqui. Separately, Donald Trump Jr., on a family visit to India, sought blessings at Reliance’s Vantara in Jamnagar. In Assam, locals and forest staff united in a late-night rescue effort to save a trapped baby elephant, showcasing remarkable compassion.