The Government of Singapore has issued a stringent public health advisory for its citizens residing in or traveling to the National Capital Region (NCR) of Delhi, following a severe and dangerous deterioration in the city’s air quality index (AQI).
The advisory is a direct response to the persistent, dense smog and hazardous pollution levels that have plagued the Indian capital, pushing the air quality into the 'Severe' category.
Key Directives: 'Stay Indoors'
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) or the relevant agency in Singapore advised its nationals to exercise extreme caution, with the principal directive being to "stay indoors" as much as possible.
The core advice includes:
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Nationals are strongly encouraged to minimize time spent outdoors, especially during peak pollution hours.
- Wear Masks: Use appropriate high-filtration masks (such as N95 or P95) if outdoor movement is unavoidable.
- Monitor Health: Pay close attention to personal health, particularly respiratory symptoms, and seek medical attention promptly if needed.
- Use Air Purifiers: Utilize indoor air filtration systems to maintain better air quality within residences and workplaces.
Heightened Risk for Vulnerable Groups
The advisory specifically highlighted the heightened health risks for vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
This urgent communication from Singapore underscores the international concern over Delhi's chronic air pollution crisis, which annually reaches dangerous levels during the winter months due to factors like stubble burning and local emissions.
Other nations often follow suit with similar health warnings, demonstrating the severity of the environmental challenge facing the city.
