Air Pollution: Delhi's AQI Remains In Very Poor Category

Delhi's air quality showed a slight improvement on Tuesday morning, moving from 'severe' to 'very poor', according to the Central Pollution Control Board. At 7 am, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 382, still within the 'very poor' range. A dense smog continued to envelop the city, with several areas maintaining this category.

The air quality in Delhi had been classified as 'severe plus' for four to five days in the previous week. The AQI scale categorises air quality as follows: 0-50 is good, 51-100 satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor, and 401-500 severe.

Impact on Education

In response to the ongoing air quality issues, the Directorate of Education in Delhi issued directives for schools to adhere to CAQM's order. "State governments in the NCR shall ensure that all classes up to 12th Standard are conducted in a 'hybrid' mode," stated the CAQM order. This means classes should be both physical and online wherever feasible.

The Supreme Court had previously addressed these concerns on November 25 in MC Mehta vs. Union of India. The court instructed CAQM to reassess GRAP restrictions due to their educational impact. The court highlighted that many students lack access to mid-day meals and online education facilities due to school closures.

Challenges Faced by Students

The court also noted that numerous students do not have air purifiers at home, making little difference between staying home or attending school during high pollution levels. Additionally, many educational institutions are not equipped for online learning.

Meanwhile, train services continued despite the heavy smog near New Delhi Railway Station. The city's residents have been dealing with persistent pollution challenges affecting daily life and health.

The Directorate of Education has instructed all government and private schools under its jurisdiction, including NDMC, MCD, and Delhi Cantonment Board schools, to implement hybrid classes immediately until further notice.

This decision aims to balance educational needs with health concerns amid ongoing pollution issues in Delhi and surrounding areas like Gurugram and Ghaziabad.