As air quality in Delhi continues to worsen, the Centre has updated the guidelines under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to combat the rising pollution levels. According to the new guidelines, schools will be shut down under the GRAP 3 and GRAP 4 measures, which aim to mitigate the adverse effects of pollution on public health.
Delhi's air quality has reached alarming levels, with pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) reaching hazardous levels in many parts of the city. In response, the government has implemented stricter measures to curb pollution, including shutting down schools, limiting construction activities, and restricting the use of private vehicles.
The GRAP system, which was implemented by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), categorizes air pollution into four stages based on its severity. Under GRAP 3 and GRAP 4, several actions are mandated to control the deteriorating air quality. These include shutting down schools, encouraging work-from-home arrangements, and increasing public awareness about the risks associated with poor air quality.
Authorities are continuously monitoring air quality levels, and further actions will be taken as necessary to safeguard the health of residents. The closure of schools is part of an effort to reduce children’s exposure to the hazardous air, which can lead to severe respiratory issues, especially for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
The updated guidelines are a crucial step in ensuring that Delhi residents can breathe easier while the government works on long-term solutions to tackle the root causes of air pollution. In the meantime, residents are advised to stay indoors, avoid outdoor activities, and use air purifiers to minimize exposure to harmful pollutants.
As the pollution situation in Delhi worsens, the government is urging residents to cooperate with these temporary measures and contribute to improving air quality by adopting eco-friendly practices. The school closures, while disruptive, are part of a larger effort to mitigate the immediate health risks posed by the hazardous air conditions.
Residents and parents are advised to stay updated on the latest announcements from local authorities and educational institutions for further developments regarding school schedules and health advisories.
