New Delhi: The air quality in Delhi and its neighboring cities—Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram—reached alarming levels on Tuesday morning, November 19, with several Air Quality Index (AQI) stations touching the 500-mark, categorized as severe plus. This marked the seventh consecutive day of dense smog engulfing the National Capital Region (NCR), raising serious health concerns.Universities Move to Online Classes Amid Hazardous ConditionsAmid the deteriorating air quality, Delhi University announced a shift to online classes until November 23, while Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) extended virtual learning till November 22. Both universities stated that physical classes will resume on November 25. However, exams and interviews will proceed as scheduled, officials clarified.According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), prominent areas such as Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, Bawana, and Jahangirpuri recorded AQI levels of 500 at 5 am on Tuesday. Similarly, Dwarka Sector-8 (498), RK Puram (499), and Munka (500) mirrored these dire conditions. Such figures underscore the severity of the pollution crisis.Government Declares Medical EmergencyLabeling the air quality situation a “medical emergency,” the Delhi government urged institutions to implement precautionary measures to safeguard public health. Physical classes for grades 10 and 12 were suspended, with all educational activities shifting online. “From tomorrow, physical classes for Class 10 and 12 shall also be suspended, and studies will move online,” announced Delhi Chief Minister Atishi via X.From tmrw physical classes shall be suspended for Class 10 and 12 as well, and all studies will be shifted online— Atishi (@AtishiAAP) November 18, 2024Supreme Court Intervenes on Pollution CrisisThe Supreme Court mandated Delhi-NCR states to enforce anti-pollution Graded Response Action Plan-4 (GRAP) restrictions without delay. The court criticized the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its delayed actions, asserting that ensuring a pollution-free environment is a constitutional obligation.The Union Health Secretary recommended strengthening healthcare systems and raising awareness among vulnerable groups. A comprehensive action plan at district and city levels was proposed to address air pollutions health impacts. Expansion of sentinel hospitals was also advised for effective monitoring and response.
