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The NGT (National Green Tribunal) on 10 November 2016 defined the term “environmental emergency” and listed measures to be taken by Delhi and its neighbouring states whenever the air quality index crosses “severe” levels. The measures, to be taken by Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, include sprinkling of water by helicopters, shutting down of stone crushers and construction activities and transportation of construction material until air quality standards are brought below the severe level. NGT noted that whenever particulate matter (PM) 10 and PM 2.5 are above the 431 g/m3 and 251 g/m3 mark, air quality is labelled as “severe”. This is the level at which even healthy people can develop respiratory problems and those with existing diseases are seriously impacted.