Delhi Combats Air Pollution with Hybrid Schools, Mining Ban
Delhi is grappling with severe air pollution as the government implements new measures to mitigate the crisis. Recently, schools have shifted to hybrid classes for primary students in response to declining air quality. Furthermore, non-essential construction activities have been suspended.
Current Air Quality Situation
The air quality in Delhi has reached alarming levels, categorized as “severe.” According to the Central Pollution Control Board, PM2.5 levels soared to a staggering 438 micrograms per cubic meter, which is 30 times higher than the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limit of 15.
Impact on Public Health
Doctors are advising residents, particularly children and the elderly, to stay indoors unless necessary. If outdoor activity is unavoidable, wearing protective masks is recommended to reduce health risks associated with the toxic air.
Factors Contributing to Pollution
The air quality issues stem from multiple sources, including:
- Low wind speeds
- Industrial emissions
- Vehicle exhaust
- Seasonal crop stubble burning
- Drying temperatures
Government Response
In an effort to control air pollution, the Delhi government activated the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), moving to stage three measures. This stage includes:
- A ban on mining activities
- Prohibition of stone crushing
- Restrictions on vehicles transporting dust-generating materials
- Limited movement of goods carriers in and around the city
Political Reactions
The worsening air quality has led to public protests and political clashes. Last weekend, citizens expressed their frustration with the government’s handling of pollution levels. Saurabh Bhardwaj, a member of the opposition Aam Aadmi Party, criticized the government for allegedly manipulating air quality data. He called for the declaration of a public health emergency.
In response, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) dismissed these claims. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta asserted that the government is committed to addressing pollution with seriousness. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated that air quality data is transparent and argued that spraying water near monitoring stations aims to reduce dust, not falsify results.
As winter sets in, Delhi faces not only a public health crisis but also ongoing debates about governance and accountability in pollution control efforts.
