Delhi AQI Hits Alarming Levels: Schools, Colleges Move Online, Supreme Court Intervenes
Delhi and its neighboring cities, including Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram, have been grappling with dangerously high air pollution levels as the Air Quality Index (AQI) soared to “severe plus” status, reaching a worrying 500 on November 19. A dense blanket of smog has enveloped the National Capital Region (NCR) for the seventh consecutive day, severely affecting visibility and air quality across the region. This prolonged pollution spike has raised alarms among health authorities, environmentalists, and the public alike.
In response to the hazardous conditions, several educational institutions have been forced to adapt quickly to protect students and staff. Delhi University has moved all classes online until November 23, and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has followed suit, extending virtual learning until November 22. The shift to online education is being implemented to ensure the safety of students while maintaining academic schedules amidst the crisis. Both universities have confirmed plans to resume physical classes later this month, contingent upon an improvement in the air quality.
Prominent areas like Anand Vihar, Bawana, Jahangirpuri, and Major Dhyan Chand Stadium recorded the worst levels of pollution, with AQI values hitting 500, indicating a “severe plus” category, which is considered hazardous. Other locations such as North Campus, Munirka, and RK Puram reported similarly unhealthy air conditions, with significant health risks for residents.
The Delhi government has declared the situation a “medical emergency,” urging all citizens to limit outdoor activities, especially the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. As part of the emergency response, the government has mandated that schools and workplaces implement precautionary measures. Starting November 20, physical classes for grades 10 and 12 have been suspended across Delhi, shifting all educational activities online until the air quality improves.
Chief Minister Atishi has stressed the urgency of the situation, stating that these steps are essential to safeguard public health and prevent further health complications arising from exposure to toxic air. She called for collective responsibility, urging citizens to minimize outdoor exposure and use air purifiers where possible.
Health Advisory and Supreme Court Interventions
In light of the escalating pollution levels, the Union Health Ministry has issued new health guidelines for the public, recommending enhanced monitoring of pollution-related illnesses, particularly among vulnerable groups. The Ministry has also called on states and Union Territories to bolster their healthcare infrastructure to manage the increased burden of respiratory conditions.
The Supreme Court of India has taken a proactive stance in addressing the pollution crisis, ordering strict implementation of the Graded Response Action Plan-4 (GRAP). The court also emphasized the constitutional responsibility of the government to ensure a clean and safe environment for its citizens. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) came under scrutiny for delays in enforcing GRAP measures, with the Supreme Court urging them to act swiftly in curbing the pollution levels.
The court’s intervention underscores the gravity of the situation, with calls for immediate action to mitigate the pollution and protect the health of millions living in the region. Authorities have been urged to consider long-term measures to combat air pollution, such as stricter enforcement of anti-pollution laws and stronger collaborations between state governments.
Causes and Broader Impact
The primary factors contributing to the hazardous air quality include stagnant weather conditions, which prevent the dispersal of pollutants, and the ongoing practice of stubble burning in neighboring states like Punjab and Haryana. The toxic combination of smoke from the burning of crop residue and vehicular emissions has created an unhealthy air mix, further exacerbating the crisis.
The impacts of this severe pollution are being felt beyond just respiratory health. The dense smog has caused disruptions in daily life, with public transport delays, visibility issues on roads, and widespread health concerns. Hospitals in the region are seeing an uptick in patients with respiratory problems, and outdoor activities have come to a halt. The government and health agencies are under increasing pressure to find solutions, both short-term and long-term, to manage and reduce the impact of air pollution.
The Way Forward: Calls for Long-Term Solutions
While the immediate focus remains on managing the current crisis, experts have called for a comprehensive, long-term strategy to address Delhi’s chronic air pollution. This includes promoting cleaner technologies, enforcing stricter emission norms, expanding green spaces, and addressing the root causes of crop residue burning through better agricultural practices and alternative solutions.
The government’s push for urgent action, alongside judicial scrutiny, is a significant step in combating the city’s air pollution. However, experts warn that real change can only be achieved through sustained efforts across multiple sectors, with a focus on environmental consciousness, cleaner urban planning, and greater public awareness. The current situation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing environmental health, especially in densely populated regions like Delhi-NCR.
