Primary Schools to go Online
In response to the worsening air quality in Delhi, the Centre’s air quality panel has invoked Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The decision, effective from 8 AM on Friday, November 15, comes as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) crossed 400, reaching a hazardous level of 420 on Wednesday. This marks the highest pollution levels recorded this season, pushing the city’s air quality into the “severe” category.
Enforcement of GRAP-3
Stage-3 of the GRAP involves a series of stricter measures aimed at mitigating the impact of severe air pollution. Along with the already enforced Stage-I and Stage-II actions, the new restrictions include a ban on construction and demolition activities, and a halt to the operation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles. These steps are designed to reduce emissions and curb the toxic haze engulfing the National Capital Region (NCR).
Delhi CM announces Primary Schools to go Online
To address the immediate impact on public health, Delhi’s Chief Minister Atishi announced that all primary schools in the city will switch to online classes. The move comes in response to the worsening pollution, which is expected to persist until the weather improves. The decision to move classes online aims to protect children from exposure to hazardous air conditions.
Air Quality falls in Severe Category
Delhi’s air quality remained in the “severe” category for a second consecutive day, with the AQI surpassing 400, making the city the most polluted in the country. Delhi’s Environment Minister, Gopal Rai, explained that the combination of calm winds and a drop in temperature has caused pollutants to remain trapped in the air, exacerbating the pollution levels.
However, Rai expressed hope that wind speeds would pick up between Friday and Saturday, which could help alleviate the pollution. Rising temperatures over the weekend are also expected to improve air quality, potentially leading to a decrease in pollution levels in the coming days.
Also Read: https://marksmendaily.com/environment/pre-diwali-pollution-leaves-delhi-wheezing/
