Delhi Faces Severe Air Quality Crisis, Hybrid Classes Implemented

Delhi, India – Authorities in Delhi have ordered schools to adopt hybrid classes for primary students as air quality deteriorates to alarming levels. On Tuesday, officials imposed stricter anti-pollution measures following a spike in hazardous air quality in the Indian capital.

The Central Pollution Control Board reported that on Wednesday, PM2.5 levels in Delhi reached a staggering 438, a dangerous level that can affect even healthy individuals. This figure is approximately 30 times higher than the World Health Organization’s (WHO) safe limit of 15.

Doctors have urged residents, particularly children and the elderly, to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary and to wear protective masks when going outside. The recurring issue of toxic air quality in Delhi is exacerbated by various factors, including low wind speeds, vehicle emissions, industrial discharge, and seasonal crop-burning in neighboring states.

To combat the pollution, the Delhi government activated Stage 3 of its Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) this week. This stage includes banning non-essential construction activity, restricting the movement of goods carriers, and prohibiting mining and stone-crushing activities.

The situation has ignited public outcry, with protests erupting in the capital over the weekend. Saurabh Bhardwaj, an opposition leader from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), accused the Delhi government of distorting air quality data and failing to safeguard public health. He urged the authorities to declare a public health emergency.

In response to the allegations, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta affirmed that the government is committed to pollution control. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa defended the measures, stating that the dust suppression techniques employed near air quality monitors were not intended to manipulate data.

The continuation of hazardous air quality in Delhi emphasizes the need for urgent action. With GRAP Stage 3 now in effect, the city is navigating heightened restrictions to protect residents from severe pollution.