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Choking Capital: Delhi’s Toxic Smog Crisis Grounds Flights and Strains Health Systems

                              People walk in a smog-covered morning in New Delhi, India, Monday, Dec. 15, 2025. Dense toxic smog has engulfed New Delhi, reducing visibility, halting travel, and plunging the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) to an alarming 471 , far above the hazardous threshold of 300. The blanket of pollution has led to over 40 flight cancellations and dozens of delays , while more than 50 trains were held up for hours , leaving thousands of commuters stranded. Authorities have imposed emergency pollution-control measures , including a ban on older diesel vehicles, suspension of construction activities, and hybrid schooling for children. Courts have even advised virtual hearings to minimize exposure. Hospitals across the capital are reporting a surge in patients suffering from breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and aggravated asthma conditions . Physicians...
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Winter's Dawn: Celebrating the Solstice

The Winter Solstice, which occurred on December 21st, marks the shortest day and longest night of the year, signaling the official start of winter. Mary Walrath-Holdridge and Julia Gomez from USA TODAY explore the significance of this astronomical event and how it is celebrated across different cultures.

The solstice, occurring when the North Pole is tilted furthest away from the sun, brings the least amount of daylight and the longest night. This year, the solstice fell on December 21st at 4:21 a.m. EST, marking the astronomical beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere.

Historically, the Winter Solstice has been a time of celebration and reflection. Ancient civilizations, such as the Romans with their Saturnalia festival and the Norsemen with their bonfires, honored the return of the sun and the promise of longer days ahead. Today, people continue to observe the solstice with various traditions, including gatherings, feasts, and rituals that pay homage to the natural cycles of light and darkness.

The Winter Solstice also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance in nature and the promise of longer days to come. As we embrace the winter season, it’s a perfect opportunity to slow down, find warmth in the company of loved ones, and cherish the cozy moments that this time of year brings.

No matter how you choose to observe this day, the Winter Solstice invites us all to reflect on the passing year and set intentions for the new one. So, light a candle, sip on some hot cocoa, and embrace the magic of winter's arrival.




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