Beijing issued its first ever red alert for current smog and pollution levels on Monday. The alert will be in effect from Tuesday until Thursday at noon local time, and is the highest pollution alert in China. During this time, schools will be closed, car usage will be restricted, and outdoor construction and other industrial activities that produce pollutants will be ceased, according to CNN.
Smog is causing visibility to be significantly reduced, with some areas of Beijing only having visibility up to 200m (660 feet), according to BBC. The level of pollution is causing health concerns, as the poisonous particle PM 2.5 is at a concentration 10 times higher than the recommended limit issued by the World Health Organization, according to BBC.
China has had unparalleled economic growth the past few decades due to its industrial sector, but this has come with its drawbacks. An industry focused on coal, as well as the amount of vehicles producing fuel emissions have contributed to the smog. Recent humidity and a lack of wind are the immediate factors aiding to the concentration of the smog, reported BBC.
Residents of Beijing are reportedly displeased with the way the government has dealt with the pollution and the safety of its citizens. Many took to the Internet to criticize the local authorities for not issuing the red alert last week, when the air pollution was also reaching hazardous levels, according to Reuters. Chen Jining, China's Environmental Protection Minister, also voiced his displeasure and promises to punish any officials and agencies which do not quickly implement a plan to respond to the pollution problem.
The smog is expected to dissipate on Thursday when a cold front hits Beijing, according to BBC News. Representatives from China are attending the UN meetings on climate control this week in Paris.
Earlier last week, on Nov. 30, Beijing issued an orange alert for smog as well, which is the second highest level alert.
