Beijing’s air pollution goes off the scale

A massive sandstorm combined with air pollution has turned Beijing's air into a thick orange haze, causing air quality measurements to reach a shocking level of 999. Residents in Western China experienced breathing difficulties, while Tokyo and Sydney recorded much lower air quality indexes. Sandstorms, common during this time of year, are often attributed to winds from the Gobi Desert, but this one is unusually severe. Deforestation is a significant factor in these spring dust storms. Beijing has been facing high pollution levels, prompting officials to enforce stricter regulations on companies violating pollution rules.

What are some common causes of sandstorms in the region?

What measures have officials vowed to take regarding pollution?