Why does Delhi’s air turn smoky in autumn?
After farmers in north India cut their rice, the leftover stalks stay in the fields. To clear the fields quickly for the next crop, some farmers burn them. This week, Punjab had its highest number of farm fires so far this season.
The smoke drifts towards cities like Delhi. In colder weather, the air near the ground stays still, like a lid on a pot. Smoke from cars, factories and festival fireworks gets trapped too.
Smoky air has tiny bits of dust that we breathe in. It can make people cough and make it harder for some people to breathe, especially children and older people.
Thiruvananthapuram is by the sea, with lots of wind and rain, so our air is usually much cleaner. But smoke from burning rubbish can still make the air dirty anywhere.
Scientists and farmers are trying new machines that mix the stalks back into the soil instead of burning them. Families can help by walking or taking the bus for short trips, and never burning rubbish.
11 Oct: Day of the Girl Child
15 Oct: Global Handwashing Day
16 Oct: World Food Day (see page 6)
8 Nov: Diwali