Smog smothers Beijing as backlash grows over decision to stage marathon despite pollution
Pollution level remains "hazardous" as internet users hit out after Beijing’s international marathon was held on Sunday amid the choking smog. Many blamed organisers for failing to reschedule the race and putting participants’ health at risk.
The capital was still shrouded in smog on Monday amid continuing controversy over the decision to stage the marathon despite the choking pollution.
Beijing’s official Air Quality Index climbed from above 200 on Sunday night to over 314 at 11am on Monday. A reading above 300 is considered a “hazardous” pollution level which poses a health risk to the entire population and means strenuous outdoor activity should be avoided.
The highest reading released by the US embassy since the smog hit the capital last week stood at 442 at 4am on Sunday morning.
Forecasts say the smog will be dispersed by a cold front arriving at the city on Monday but the weather authorities warned that it may return by Thursday.
Internet users on the mainland hit out after Beijing’s international marathon was held on Sunday amid the choking smog. Many blamed organisers for failing to reschedule the race and putting participants’ health at risk.
About 30,000 runners took part in the marathon which started in Tiananmen Square on Sunday morning with an AQI reading above 400 – meaning pollution levels were “hazardous”.