In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has ruled that the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-4) measures to curb air pollution will remain in effect in Delhi-NCR until December 2. The decision aims to mitigate the hazardous air quality levels in the region. However, schools will be exempted from the shutdown imposed under these measures, allowing educational institutions to continue operations.
The GRAP-4 guidelines, which include measures like the closure of schools, the suspension of construction activities, and the halting of truck movement, were initially enforced to control the increasing levels of air pollution, especially during the winter months when pollution levels typically peak in the National Capital Region.
The court’s decision to extend the GRAP-4 measures comes after the air quality in Delhi-NCR deteriorated to severe levels, with the air quality index (AQI) crossing hazardous levels in many areas. Despite the ongoing concerns about air quality, the court has allowed schools to remain open, understanding the challenges students face if educational activities are disrupted for extended periods.
The ruling is a part of ongoing efforts by the Supreme Court to address the persistent air pollution issue in Delhi-NCR, which has been a cause for concern for both public health and environmental sustainability. While the government continues to work on long-term solutions, such as stricter vehicle emissions standards and increasing green cover, temporary measures like the GRAP-4 continue to be vital to ensure public safety.
Authorities have been urged to remain vigilant and ensure that air pollution control measures are rigorously enforced until the end of the specified period. Meanwhile, citizens have been advised to continue taking precautions, especially vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly, to mitigate the adverse health effects of polluted air.
