Beijing sends 2nd red alert history against pollution

BEIJING, Dec. 18 (ANSA) - Chinese authorities have enacted again "red alert" on Friday (18) due to the air pollution index in the capital, Beijing. It is the second time in city history that the index reaches its maximum, the first of which took place last December 7. In a statement, the Beijing meteorological office said smog reach the capital tomorrow (19). The smoke does not dissolve prior to Wednesday (23) and it is estimated that the concentration of PM2.5 (the finest and susceptible ase infiltrate the lung) will reach 500 per cubic meter of air.

The World Health Organization (WHO) consider that 25 cubic meters of PM2.5 are already hazardous to health. The visibility in Beijing is expected to be less than a kilometer.

As a result of red alert, the movement of cars will be restricted and some factories should reduce their activities. Barbecues and outdoor parties that promote smoke will be vetoed. Regarding the functioning of schools, it is up to each institution to decide direction. Another guidance to the public is to avoid activities on the street. In November, after a pollution cloud fall on Beijing, local officials have been targets of criticism for not having declared red alert not taken steps against the situation.