NEW DELHI (AP) — Schools were closed indefinitely and some coal-based power plants shut down as the smog-shrouded Indian capital and neighboring states invoked harsh measures Wednesday to combat worsening air pollution after an order from the federal environment ministry. Besides the closure of schools, the Commission for Air Quality Management ordered a stop to construction activities until Nov. 21 and banned trucks carrying non-essential goods. The panel also directed the states to “encourage” work from home for half of the employees in all private offices. Forecasters warned air quality would worsen before the arrival of cold winds next week that will blow away the smog. Earlier this month, air quality levels fell to the “severe” category in the capital and residents faced bouts of severe, multiday pollution.
