In a bid to protect young children from the worsening air quality in Delhi, Chief Minister Atishi announced that all primary schools in the capital will transition to online classes until further notice. The decision comes as the city grapples with severe pollution levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) firmly in the “severe” category.
“Due to rising pollution levels, all primary schools in Delhi will be shifting to online classes until further directions,” CM Atishi posted on social media platform X on Thursday.
GRAP-III Measures Activated
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR, effective from 8 a.m. on November 15. This escalation follows an urgent review meeting held on November 14, during which officials noted that Delhi’s AQI had remained in the “severe” range since November 13. Forecasts suggest that air quality may continue to deteriorate.
Under GRAP III, stringent measures are being implemented to mitigate the health risks and environmental damage caused by the pollution surge. These include:
- Enhanced Road Cleaning and Dust Suppression: Authorities have intensified mechanized road sweeping and daily water sprinkling with dust suppressants, especially in high-traffic zones.
- Ban on Dust-Generating Activities: Construction and demolition activities, including earthwork and drilling, are strictly prohibited, except for essential projects related to national security, healthcare, and public infrastructure.
- Restrictions on Polluting Industries: Stone crushers, mining operations, and other high-emission industries have been shut down.
- Vehicle Restrictions: BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles are barred from operating in Delhi and neighbouring districts. Diesel-operated light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi are also restricted from entering the city, barring those carrying essential goods.
Delhi Metro Boosts Services
In response to GRAP-III activation, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has announced 20 additional trips on weekdays. These trips, alongside 40 extra trips implemented under Stage II, aim to improve public transport accessibility and reduce dependence on private vehicles, thus curbing emissions.
Health Concerns for Children
One of the most significant measures under GRAP III is the potential discontinuation of physical classes for children up to Class V. Authorities are prioritizing online learning to shield young students from prolonged exposure to hazardous air quality. This step highlights the growing concern over the impact of air pollution on children’s health.
Stage III GRAP Measures in Detail
The Graded Response Action Plan categorizes pollution control measures into four stages, corresponding to increasing levels of air quality deterioration:
- Stage I (‘Poor’): AQI 201-300
- Stage II (‘Very Poor’): AQI 301-400
- Stage III (‘Severe’): AQI 401-450
- Stage IV (‘Severe Plus’): AQI above 450
The 11-point action plan under Stage III supplements existing Stage I and II measures. Key initiatives include:
- Intensified cleaning and suppression of road dust.
- Increased frequency of public transport services to discourage private vehicle use.
- Differential public transport pricing to promote off-peak travel.
- Complete ban on non-essential construction activities.
- Enhanced monitoring and regulation of polluting industries.
- Strict enforcement of vehicle emission standards.
- Encouraging work-from-home policies for employees.
- Public advisories to use cleaner modes of transport.
- Avoidance of coal and wood for heating.
A Delayed Start to GRAP-III in 2023
Interestingly, Stage III has been implemented later this year compared to 2022, when it was activated on November 2. This delayed activation has raised questions about the timeliness of response measures amid increasing pollution levels.
Public Advisory and Cooperation
The CAQM has issued a public appeal urging citizens to adhere to Stage III guidelines. Key recommendations include using public transport, carpooling, and working from home whenever possible. Residents are also advised to minimize activities that contribute to pollution, such as the burning of coal and wood for heating.
Broader Implications
The severe pollution in Delhi highlights the need for long-term solutions beyond emergency measures. Experts continue to stress the importance of:
- Adopting Cleaner Energy Sources: Transitioning to renewable energy for industries and transportation.
- Urban Planning Innovations: Creating green spaces and improving waste management to combat air pollution.
- Community Awareness: Educating citizens about the impact of pollution and how individual actions can contribute to cleaner air.
The shift to online classes for Delhi’s primary school children underscores the gravity of the pollution crisis in the region. With GRAP III now in full effect, authorities are doubling down on efforts to curb emissions and protect public health. However, tackling Delhi’s chronic air pollution problem will require a sustained, multi-pronged approach involving government action, corporate responsibility, and public participation.
By addressing the immediate crisis and fostering long-term resilience, Delhi can work toward a future where clean air is a reality, not just a goal.