Home » AQI

Amidst slightly improved air quality, schools in Delhi are preparing for the potential resumption of physical classes following a recent Supreme Court suggestion to restart them. With parents expressing mixed feelings about this move, many are grappling with concerns over their children’s exposure to pollution while also worried about the educational gaps caused by prolonged remote learning.

WHAT ARE SCHOOLS DOING TO PREPARE FOR REOPENING?

In a bid to safeguard student health, schools are implementing a variety of comprehensive safety measures. Sudha Acharya, the Principal of ITL Public School in Dwarka, emphasized that the school has issued a detailed advisory advocating for mask-wearing, carpooling, and the rescheduling of numerous events to mitigate health risks associated with returning to in-person education.

“We’ve postponed all major events, including our annual and sports days, from November to February,” Acharya elaborated, highlighting the school’s commitment to ensuring student safety during this transitional phase.

Similarly, Indraprastha School’s Principal Rajesh Hassija outlined that indoor morning assemblies will be instituted, alongside the suspension of physical activities like yoga. “Masks are mandatory, and we’re minimizing outdoor activities to effectively curb exposure to pollutants,” he explained, reinforcing the stringent measures schools are undertaking.

In addition to these measures, some schools are adopting innovative strategies to enhance student well-being. Vividh Gupta, Principal of Bal Bhavan Public School in Mayur Vihar, mentioned, “We’ve advised full-sleeve uniforms and masks. Additionally, the campus will be sprinkled with water twice daily to minimize dust and other particulate matter.”

“To keep our younger students engaged and safe, they will be participating in indoor activities such as chess and painting during their free periods,” Gupta noted, highlighting the creativity being employed to navigate these challenges.

PARENTS FACE A TOUGH CHOICE

Amidst this uncertain landscape, parents find themselves divided regarding the prospect of reopening schools. Aprajita Gautam, president of the Delhi Parents’ Association, characterized the situation as a “no-win situation” for families.

She expressed, “Sending children to school risks exposure to pollution; keeping them home means they miss out on essential activities that foster their development.” To help bolster their children’s immunity during this critical period, some parents are turning to antioxidant-rich diets and advocating for heightened care, particularly for children who suffer from allergies.

SUPREME COURT’S ROLE IN THE DEBATE

The Supreme Court has emphasized the significant challenges associated with prolonged online learning, including inadequate infrastructure and the absence of mid-day meals for numerous students. As such, the Court has directed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to evaluate the feasibility of resuming physical classes, while concurrently maintaining anti-pollution restrictions.

The Court has stated that it will only consider relaxing these measures in response to consistent improvements in air quality index (AQI) levels. Despite the air quality being recorded at a concerning 281 on Monday morning, categorizing it as “poor,” schools are gearing up to find the right balance between safeguarding health and promoting education as they await further updates on this critical matter.

(With PTI inputs)

Published On:

Nov 25, 2024

‌ What specific⁤ health measures is ITL Public School implementing to ensure student safety during the transition back to in-person classes?

⁢ **Interview ‌with Sudha Acharya, Principal of ITL Public School, Dwarka**

**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Ms. Acharya. As schools in Delhi are preparing to potentially reopen following the Supreme Court’s suggestion, ⁤can you⁣ share how ITL Public School is getting ready for this transition?

**Sudha ‌Acharya:** Thank you for having me. At​ ITL Public School, we are⁢ taking a ​proactive approach to ensure our students’ safety as we consider resuming physical classes. We’ve issued a detailed advisory that emphasizes important health‌ measures, such ​as ⁤mandatory mask-wearing and carpooling to reduce exposure to pollution.

**Interviewer:** That sounds like a comprehensive strategy. I understand that you’ve also made some changes to your events schedule?

**Sudha Acharya:** Yes, we’ve decided⁣ to postpone all major events, including‌ our annual functions and sports​ days, from November to February. ‍This will help us focus on the immediate health and safety of our students during this‌ transition period.

**Interviewer:** What particular measures are in place for daily activities, especially considering the ​air quality concerns?

**Sudha⁣ Acharya:** ‌We’ve implemented several critical measures. For instance, indoor morning assemblies will replace outdoor gatherings to minimize exposure to pollutants.‍ We’re also encouraging less physical activity outdoors, especially ⁢for younger students.

**Interviewer:** That’s reassuring ⁣to⁤ hear. With parents expressing ‌mixed feelings about resuming in-person classes, what measures are⁣ you advising to ​help alleviate their concerns?

**Sudha Acharya:** We ⁣completely understand parents’ concerns regarding their ⁢children’s⁢ health. We’re not only‌ emphasizing mask usage but also encouraging parents to make sure their children wear full-sleeve uniforms. Additionally,⁣ we’re⁤ sprinkling water across the campus twice daily to help settle dust and particulate ‌matter, creating a cleaner environment for our students.

**Interviewer:**⁢ It seems like you’re prioritizing student well-being while also addressing educational needs. How do you plan to keep younger students engaged in this ⁤challenging environment?

**Sudha Acharya:** Keeping younger students ⁢engaged is crucial. We’re‌ planning interactive sessions that can be held indoors, which will focus on fun activities that ⁤are safe while still promoting learning. We want to balance educational engagement with the necessary precautions.

**Interviewer:** Thank‍ you, Ms. Acharya, for sharing⁣ these insights. ‍It’s⁤ evident that ITL Public ‌School⁣ is committed to ensuring a safe learning⁣ environment ⁢as you navigate the challenges posed by air quality ‍issues.

**Sudha Acharya:** Thank you for having me. We are hopeful that with these measures, we can support our students’ education and ⁢health effectively.

### Additional Context

The conversation reflects the current ⁣status of schools in the Delhi-NCR region responding to ‍air quality concerns, particularly as‍ schools have‌ been closed due to pollution, with authorities issuing safety⁤ advisories to‍ protect students as they consider reopening [[1](https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-delhi-ncr-air-pollution-schools-likely-to-stay-closed-till-this-date-check-city-wise-update-3119056)].

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Delhi pollution: In response to the alarming levels of air pollution blanketing the capital, Chief Minister Atishi announced on Thursday the immediate closure of all schools within Delhi, with a transition to virtual classes for students. This decisive measure comes as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) skyrocketed to an alarming 428 on Thursday morning, an unprecedented figure marking the ‘severe’ category for the first time this season. Officials warn that such deteriorating air quality poses a grave health risk for all residents, particularly vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.

By 9 am on Thursday, a staggering 32 out of Delhi’s 39 air quality monitoring stations reported AQI levels surpassing 400, indicating a widespread crisis. Areas such as Anand Vihar and the Indira Gandhi International Airport were highlighted as particularly hard-hit, with these readings reflecting the city’s most polluted atmosphere so far this season, and positioning Delhi as experiencing the worst air quality in the entire country.

On social media platform X, Atishi expressed the gravity of the situation, stating: “Due to rising pollution levels, all primary schools in Delhi will be shifting to online classes, until further directions.” This announcement underscores the government’s urgent response to the escalating environmental threat.

The alarming rise in the Air Quality Index has triggered the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to activate GRAP-III measures across the national capital region. These steps include a temporary halt to all construction activities and a ban on inter-state buses and trucks operating in the densely populated urban area, aimed at mitigating the dire situation.

What all is banned under GRAP 3

The enforcement of GRAP-III specifically prohibits any non-essential construction and demolition activities that could further exacerbate the pollution crisis. Additionally, vehicles that run on petrol and adhere to the outdated BS-III emission standards, as well as diesel vehicles meeting the less stringent BS-IV standards, will face restrictions from operating on roads within Delhi and adjoining regions of the National Capital Region (NCR), such as Gurugram, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), a wide range of activities, including road construction, boring and drilling work, laying sewer lines, and drainage work are strictly prohibited as part of the Comprehensive Action Plan designed to combat air pollution in Delhi. The loading and unloading of construction materials and the movement of vehicles on unpaved roads are also banned to curb dust and particulate matter.

Moreover, as part of the third phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), a strict clampdown will be placed on the operation of inter-state buses from neighboring NCR states, with exceptions only for electric vehicles, CNG vehicles, and BS-VI compliant diesel buses, which are permitted to enter Delhi.

In the ongoing battle against harmful emissions, limitations will target the operation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi, as well as the districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar, pushing towards a cleaner urban environment.

How can residents contribute to improving air quality in Delhi⁢ while the government implements long-term solutions?

**Interview ⁤with Chief⁢ Minister Atishi on Delhi’s Air ⁢Pollution ⁤Crisis**

**Interviewer:** Good afternoon, Chief Minister Atishi. Thank you for joining us today.⁣ Delhi is ⁣currently facing‍ unprecedented levels of air pollution, with the Air Quality Index soaring to ⁢428. Can you explain what led‌ to the decision to close schools and shift to virtual‌ classes?

**Atishi:** Good afternoon. Thank you for having me.⁢ The decision to ​close all primary schools in‍ Delhi and transition to online classes⁤ was made in response to the alarming air ⁤quality levels⁣ we are ​witnessing. An AQI of ⁢428 is extremely concerning, ​especially for our children and vulnerable populations. The health and safety of our students are our top priority, and we cannot⁤ overlook the grave risks posed by such toxic air.

**Interviewer:** The figures you’ve quoted ‌are indeed alarming. Can you tell us more about‌ the areas that are most affected and what specific measures are being put in place to address this crisis?

**Atishi:** Certainly. ⁢Areas like Anand Vihar and the vicinity around the Indira Gandhi International Airport are among⁤ the ‌hardest ⁤hit, with AQI⁢ levels consistently exceeding 400. In response, we’ve activated GRAP-III measures, which include a ⁣temporary ⁤suspension of construction activities, increased monitoring, and efforts to curb vehicular emissions. It’s vital that we take immediate action to mitigate ​further damage while also working towards long-term solutions to improve Delhi’s ​air quality.

**Interviewer:** There seems to be a growing concern among residents about the health impacts of⁤ this pollution. What advice can you give to the people of Delhi ​during this crisis?

**Atishi:** It’s crucial for everyone to stay indoors as much as possible, ‍especially individuals with pre-existing⁣ health conditions, children, and the elderly. ⁤We recommend using air⁤ purifiers, wearing masks when going outside, and keeping windows⁤ closed to ‍minimize exposure. We are also ramping up public health ‌communications ⁤to inform residents about practical steps they can take during these severe pollution episodes.

**Interviewer:** How can the government ensure that such severe pollution levels‌ are tackled in the⁣ long term, beyond immediate measures?

**Atishi:** Long-term solutions ‌require a multi-faceted approach. This includes enhancing public transport, ⁤promoting⁢ green energy ⁣initiatives, and strict regulations on industrial emissions. We are also advocating for greater cooperation among neighboring states to address‍ pollution sources common to the NCR. Our focus will be on sustainable development and creating a cleaner environment for future generations.

**Interviewer:** Thank you, Chief ‍Minister Atishi, ‌for sharing your insights on this‌ pressing issue. We hope to see effective solutions implemented soon⁣ to⁣ protect the citizens of Delhi.

**Atishi:** Thank you for having me. Together, ​we can combat this crisis and make Delhi a healthier place for everyone.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Delhi pollution: In response to the alarming surge in air pollution levels in Delhi, Chief Minister Atishi announced on Thursday that all schools across the national capital will be transitioning to virtual classes. This significant decision was prompted by the staggering rise in Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) to a hazardous 428 on Thursday morning, marking the first instance this season where air quality has entered the ‘severe’ category. The spike in pollution poses a dire health risk to the residents of Delhi, as confirmed by health officials and environmental experts.

At 9 am on Thursday, a concerning 32 out of Delhi’s 39 air quality monitoring stations indicated AQI levels surpassing 400. Notably, areas such as Anand Vihar and IGI Airport are enduring particularly detrimental air quality. This alarming reading signifies not only the worst air quality experienced this season but also the highest levels recorded in the entire country, shedding light on the urgent need for immediate action.

In a recent update posted on X, Atishi elaborated: “Due to the alarming rise in pollution levels, all primary schools in Delhi will be transitioning to online classes, with plans to reassess the situation in the coming days.”

The escalation of pollution levels has compelled the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to implement GRAP-III measures in the national capital region. Consequently, significant restrictions are being enforced, including the suspension of all construction activities and a ban on the operation of inter-state buses and trucks within the region.

What all is banned under GRAP 3

The rigorous implementation of GRAP-III prohibits any non-essential construction and demolition activities throughout the national capital. Additionally, petrol vehicles that do not meet the current emission standards established under BS-III and diesel vehicles that fail to comply with the more stringent BS-IV standards are banned from operating on the roads of Delhi and selected regions of the National Capital Region (NCR), including Gurugram, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar.

As outlined by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the list of restricted construction and demolition activities includes critical operations such as road construction, boring and drilling work, laying of sewer lines, drainage work, and loading and unloading of construction materials. The movement of vehicles on unpaved roads will also face prohibition, as part of the Comprehensive Action Plan to Combat Air Pollution in Delhi.

Furthermore, the third phase of GRAP will impose additional limitations on inter-state bus operations from National Capital Region (NCR) states, whereby only electric vehicles, CNG vehicles, and BS-VI diesel buses will be permitted entry into Delhi. This measure is crucial for curbing the rising levels of pollution.

In this third phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), strict limitations will be placed on the operation of BS-III petrol vehicles and BS-IV diesel vehicles within Delhi, as well as in the neighboring districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar, to mitigate the adverse effects of pollution.

How does the government⁢ plan ​to engage and​ educate the public about the health risks associated⁤ with air pollution in the⁣ long⁤ run?

**Interview with‍ Chief Minister Atishi⁢ on Delhi’s Pollution Crisis**

**Interviewer:**‌ Thank you for‍ joining us today, Chief Minister Atishi. Can you share the ‌rationale behind the decision to shift all primary schools in Delhi to virtual classes?

**Atishi:**‌ Thank you⁢ for having ‍me. The​ decision was made in response to ​the alarming surge in‌ air pollution⁣ in ⁣Delhi. With the Air Quality Index reaching a ⁣hazardous 428,‌ it became​ imperative ‌to protect the ‍health of‍ our ‍children and residents. Virtual classes will minimize exposure to the dangerous air quality while ⁤we reassess the situation in the coming days.

**Interviewer:** That’s​ a⁤ significant ⁤move. ⁣What specific health risks does this level of pollution pose, ⁢particularly for children?

**Atishi:** Exposure to such severe pollution can lead to immediate and long-term health issues,⁤ including respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and even developmental impacts for children. Given that 32 out of ⁣our 39 monitoring stations recorded AQI levels over 400, the dangers are particularly pronounced ​in areas‌ like Anand Vihar and IGI Airport.

**Interviewer:** Can ‌you‍ elaborate on the measures ⁤being taken by the​ Commission ⁤for‍ Air Quality ⁢Management to address this crisis?

**Atishi:** Certainly. The Commission has⁣ implemented GRAP-III measures, which​ impose significant ⁤restrictions, including halting‌ all construction activities, to help mitigate pollution levels. We are ​working closely with environmental experts to monitor the situation ​and enact more extensive ⁣solutions as needed.

**Interviewer:** Many ‍residents are concerned about the‍ immediate impact on daily life.‍ What can they do to protect themselves until conditions improve?

**Atishi:** We‌ recommend​ that residents limit ⁤outdoor activities, especially for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with ‍preexisting health conditions. Wearing masks, using air purifiers indoors, and keeping windows closed can also help mitigate exposure to the harmful ‌air.

**Interviewer:** What message do you want to send to the citizens of Delhi during this challenging ⁢time?

**Atishi:**​ I want to ⁣assure ⁤the people of⁢ Delhi ⁣that we are taking‍ this situation very seriously. Our government is committed to implementing both‍ immediate and long-term solutions ‌to combat pollution.⁣ I urge‌ everyone to stay informed and take precautions as we navigate ​this public health crisis together.

**Interviewer:** Thank ⁤you, Chief Minister Atishi, for your insights⁤ and for prioritizing​ the health of ‍Delhi’s residents.

**Atishi:** Thank you for having me. Let’s all ​work towards a cleaner⁢ and healthier Delhi.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Adblock Detected

Please support us by disabling your AdBlocker extension from your browsers for our website.