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In a dramatic turn of events, the U.S. Senate passed a six-month funding bill just hours before a potential government shutdown. The bill, which faced significant opposition from Democrats, was approved with a 54-46 vote. The legislation now heads to President Donald Trump's desk for final approval. The funding measure, often referred to as a continuing resolution (CR), was a contentious issue, with Democrats criticizing it for lacking input from their party and for falling short on key priorities like healthcare and housing assistance. However, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer urged his colleagues to support the bill, emphasizing that a government shutdown would have far-reaching consequences. Despite internal divisions, some Democrats sided with Republicans to ensure the bill's passage, prioritizing the avoidance of a shutdown over their reservations about the legislation. The decision has sparked debates within the Democratic Party, with some members expressing frustrati...

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New Delhi Shuts Down Schools and Construction Amid Severe Air Pollution Crisis

The Indian capital has been enveloped in a thick, toxic smog, prompting authorities to take drastic measures as air pollution levels soared to their worst this season. The city’s air quality index (AQI) reached a hazardous 481, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limit.

In response, the Delhi government has closed schools, halted all construction activities, and banned non-essential trucks from entering the city. Only students in grades 10 and 12 will continue with physical classes, while others will switch to online learning.

The severe pollution is attributed to a combination of factors, including the burning of crop residue by farmers in neighboring states, emissions from vehicles, and industrial activities. The colder temperatures have also contributed by trapping pollutants close to the ground.

Authorities have implemented stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes the strictest curbs to mitigate the pollution. Residents, especially children and the elderly, are advised to stay indoors as much as possible.

Despite the hazardous conditions, many residents continue their daily routines, with some expressing frustration over the recurring issue. “Everyone has a sore throat,” said Sanjay Goel, a local shopkeeper. "They should ban crop residue burning … it’s just smoke everywhere".

As the city grapples with this environmental crisis, the need for long-term solutions to combat air pollution becomes increasingly urgent.








The Indian capital has been enveloped in a thick, toxic smog, prompting authorities to take drastic measures as air pollution levels soared to their worst this season. The city’s air quality index (AQI) reached a hazardous 481, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limit12.

In response, the Delhi government has closed schools, halted all construction activities, and banned non-essential trucks from entering the city. Only students in grades 10 and 12 will continue with physical classes, while others will switch to online learning23.

The severe pollution is attributed to a combination of factors, including the burning of crop residue by farmers in neighboring states, emissions from vehicles, and industrial activities. The colder temperatures have also contributed by trapping pollutants close to the ground4.

Authorities have implemented stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes the strictest curbs to mitigate the pollution. Residents, especially children and the elderly, are advised to stay indoors as much as possible4.

Despite the hazardous conditions, many residents continue their daily routines, with some expressing frustration over the recurring issue. “Everyone has a sore throat,” said Sanjay Goel, a local shopkeeper. "They should ban crop residue burning … it’s just smoke everywhere"4.

As the city grapples with this environmental crisis, the need for long-term solutions to combat air pollution becomes increasingly urgent.

1: MSN 2: India TV News 3: Yahoo News 4: ABC News


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