The Union Health Ministry on Friday issued an advisory for school children in Delhi and neighbouring states amid raising pollution concerns and toxic air days that have emerged as a clear and present danger to public health. The decision has been taken by the ministry keeping the air emergency in mind. The national capital has been plagued by pollution and toxic clouds for some days. However, Fridays showers brought some relief to Delhi and NCR, as the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) fell below 400.According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) the citys overall AQI was estimated at 10.30 AM on Friday, which was 398.The government health advice on Friday has emphasised on school children, advising parents, teachers, administrators, and school administrators to set up systems to raise awareness and encourage pupils to take greater measures to reduce and adapt to air pollution.Heres what the advisory reads:The advisory issued by union ministry says, Areas: Cities and urban areas are more likely to have outside pollution levels. Season/days: colder winter seasons/days in cities/urban Diwali/dust storm, Timings: Morning and evening hours if SMOG is prevailing and sunlight is not visible. Sites for precautions: transit from home to school, near school gates, and outdooring. Younger children with respiratory health issues and medically underlying conditions are more vulnerable and to take more precautionary measures against risk exposure and attacks. Schools should encourage the use of bicycles by children studying in higher classes. Schools should ensure proper classroom ventilation by opening windows properly or installing exhaust fans. Windows should be kept closed if the air quality level is poor or above, it further stated.In addition to this, “Precautions and avoiding outdoor activities in school if the AQI level is poor or above. Students should be motivated to stay indoors during breaks.”Apart from this, the ministry has also advised the schools to wet mop the floors before the arrival of the students. Adding that the teachers may also consider using whiteboards and markers instead of chalk on blackboards.(With inputs from ANI)
