All primary schools in Delhi are set to close due to a significant deterioration in air quality, officials have confirmed. Chief Minister Atishi Marlena Singh announced the move on X, stating that classes will be conducted online until further notice as a dense smog blankets the city.

The Indian capital, along with nearby regions, is grappling with hazardous air pollution levels that pose serious health risks. On Thursday, the concentration of fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) exceeded 50 times the safe limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO). The seasonal smog in Delhi and northern states is exacerbated by colder temperatures, stagnant air, emissions from vehicles, industrial activities, and the widespread practice of burning crop stubble.

According to data from IQAir, a Swiss-based air quality monitoring group, Delhi recorded an average PM 2.5 level of 254 micrograms per cubic meter on Thursday, while the WHO’s recommended safe threshold is just 15 over 24 hours. These tiny particles, capable of penetrating deep into the lungs, can impact various organs and contribute to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, with potential developmental impacts on children.

Larger particulate matter (PM 10) levels were also alarmingly high, reaching an average of 495 micrograms per cubic meter—more than 10 times the daily safe level advised by the WHO.

The crisis extends beyond Delhi; cities such as Gurugram, Noida, and Chandigarh are also experiencing similarly hazardous air conditions. Residents have reported eye irritation and respiratory difficulties, as noted in local news reports. A study published in The Lancet in July highlighted that approximately 7.2% of daily deaths in Delhi could be linked to PM 2.5 exposure.

Although forecasts indicate a slight decrease in pollution levels in the coming days, they are expected to remain in the unhealthy range. Delhi’s authorities have implemented various measures to combat the crisis, such as spraying roads with dust-suppressant water and halting non-essential construction. Residents have also been advised to reduce coal burning.

However, critics argue that these interventions have shown limited success. The severity of the smog is so pronounced that it has been captured in satellite imagery shared by NASA, which shows the pollution stretching across northern India and into Pakistan.

Earlier this month, Lahore in Pakistan faced a similar situation, prompting officials to temporarily shut down its primary schools due to dangerous air quality levels.

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, has announced his resignation in the wake of a report revealing failures to address abuse linked to the Church of England. The investigation concluded that Welby, 68, “could and should” have reported allegations against John Smyth, a prolific child abuser, to the police when he first became aware of them in 2013.

In his resignation statement, Welby acknowledged, “it is very clear that I must take personal and institutional responsibility for my response.” He emphasized that stepping down was in the Church’s best interests and underscored the need for change and safety within its ranks. “I hope this decision makes clear how seriously the Church of England understands the need for change and our profound commitment to creating a safer church,” he said. Welby expressed deep sorrow for the victims and survivors of abuse.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s spokesperson expressed respect for Welby’s decision and affirmed that his thoughts were with the victims.

A devastating car attack in Zhuhai, southern China, has claimed at least 35 lives and left 45 injured, in what is believed to be the deadliest public violence in the country in decades. Authorities reported that on Monday, a 62-year-old man, identified as Mr. Fan, drove his car into a stadium and struck groups of people exercising on the track.

Local reports indicate that the victims included elderly individuals and children. The driver is believed to have carried out the “serious and vicious attack” due to discontent over a divorce settlement. He was apprehended while attempting to escape from the Zhuhai Sports Center and is currently in a coma due to self-inflicted injuries, according to a police statement.

The incident has shocked the nation and prompted an outcry for justice. President Xi Jinping has vowed “severe punishment” for the assailant and directed “all-out efforts” to provide medical treatment to the injured.