Last Monday, Beijing has issued a red alert for smog that will be in effect until Wednesday. This was after the city's air quality index reached 387 around Tuesday evening, which is more than enough for the air be considered "hazardous." The red alert is the highest level of warning within a four-tier system, affecting not just Beijing, but the majority of northern China as well.
After the red alert has been issued, more than 700 companies have then stopped production and city officers and police have been regulating and limiting the cars out on the street. Schools have also been closed down and citizens are highly advised to stay indoors throughout the duration of this alert. Besides closing roads, flights have also been grounded since the smog has caused dangerous flying conditions with the reduced visibility. People have also started relocating.
It seems as though even with the government's plan to reduce air pollution about three years ago, the situation just keeps on getting worse. Much of this is blamed on emissions from burning coal, which is even more prevalent during winter season when more energy is needed to cope with harsh weather conditions.
The only hope now for the city is for a strong gust of wind to come in and clear the air. This is expected to arrive on Thursday according to officials. But until then, civilians would have to exert more precautionary and safety measures so as to avoid damaging their health.
Just days before the red alert was issued, there has been a reported increase in cases of asthma and other respiratory issues in hospitals. Medical officials are also preparing for the surge of smog and pollution-related illnesses that could easily happen in the coming days, even after the alert has been lifted.
Even though this is the first red alert called this year, severe smog and pollution have plagued the majority of Northern China this year. And even with a plan passed in the government, the chances of the country meeting its air pollution reduction goals may seem bleak given these circumstances.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
