Air masks selling like hot cakes courtesy Delhi smog

With Delhi witnessing its worst spell of smog in 17 years, the sale of air masks has seen an upsurge since the past week with stores across the national capital and neighbouring regions running out of stock.

Popular websites and chemists have either run out of masks or are loaded with orders for masks and air purifiers even as air quality in the national capital has plunged to hazardous levels since the start of Diwali celebrations.

The owner of a shop selling masks told ANI that the rise in sell of masks has gone up post Diwali.

"The people are very careful about their health and they want to protect themselves from the pollution. The children and the old especially have to take care of themselves. It is very much essential as well," he added.

One of the buyers said it is extremely difficult to walk in the national capital wearing masks but added that there is no alternative.

"I don't wear masks regularly but the pollution has increased to such an extent that it is essential. It's difficult to roam around with mask but if we have to protect ourselves we have to wear it," she said.

"I have worn mask because of air pollution. I go out and play, so mask is required," added another buyer.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has announced a list of measures to be enforced by the state government to curb the soaring pollution in the national capital including putting all construction projects across the city on hold for the next five days and ordering the shutdown of all schools for the next three days.

He also stated that the return of the Odd-Even scheme was possible to keep traffic emissions in check, adding the possibility of artificial rain was also discussed in the meeting but it would require Centre's assistance.

Remaining resolute on his stand that crop burning in the neighbouring states was responsible for the ever-increasing pollution level in Delhi, the Chief Minister added that no immediate relief could be expected as stubble burning continued.