New Delhi, 15 November 2024: Amid worsening air quality, Delhi chief minister Atishi on Thursday announced that primary schools in the national capital will switch to online classes.
“Due to rising pollution levels, all primary schools in Delhi will be shifting to online classes, until further directions,” the chief minister said in a post on X.
The announcement came hours after the Delhi government announced that the third stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), meant for reducing air pollution, would come into effect on Friday morning.
The GRAP Stage III curbs include a ban on construction and demolition activities and plying of BS-lll petrol and BS-IV diesel light motor vehicles.
GRAP for the National Capital Region (NCR) is classified under four different stages of adverse air quality in Delhi: Stage I — ‘poor’ (AQI 201-300); Stage II — ‘very poor’ (AQI 301-400); Stage III — ‘severe’ (AQI 401-450); and Stage IV — ‘severe plus’ (AQI >450).
Understanding the Severity of Air Quality
For years, Delhi has struggled with intense air pollution, with conditions worsening during the winter months. The city often experiences hazardous levels of particulate matter (PM2.5) that can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. Key culprits for this pollution include vehicle emissions, factory discharges, and stubble burning from nearby states. This environmental disaster calls for decisive action from the government to lessen its effects on public health, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children.
Delhi Pollution: Health Risks to Children
Children are particularly vulnerable to pollution due to their developing lungs and immune systems. Research shows that long-term exposure to high air pollution levels can result in serious health issues, including asthma, reduced lung function, and cognitive challenges. The Chief Minister’s initiative to shift primary schools to online classes is a proactive step to protect the youngest and most vulnerable individuals in society. By reducing their exposure to polluted air, the government aims to ensure their health and well-being.
On Wednesday, Delhi reported the worst AQI in the country, with the air quality turning ‘severe’ for the first time this season.