Delhi pollution: In response to the alarming levels of air pollution blanketing the capital, Chief Minister Atishi announced on Thursday the immediate closure of all schools within Delhi, with a transition to virtual classes for students. This decisive measure comes as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) skyrocketed to an alarming 428 on Thursday morning, an unprecedented figure marking the ‘severe’ category for the first time this season. Officials warn that such deteriorating air quality poses a grave health risk for all residents, particularly vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
By 9 am on Thursday, a staggering 32 out of Delhi’s 39 air quality monitoring stations reported AQI levels surpassing 400, indicating a widespread crisis. Areas such as Anand Vihar and the Indira Gandhi International Airport were highlighted as particularly hard-hit, with these readings reflecting the city’s most polluted atmosphere so far this season, and positioning Delhi as experiencing the worst air quality in the entire country.
On social media platform X, Atishi expressed the gravity of the situation, stating: “Due to rising pollution levels, all primary schools in Delhi will be shifting to online classes, until further directions.” This announcement underscores the government’s urgent response to the escalating environmental threat.
The alarming rise in the Air Quality Index has triggered the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to activate GRAP-III measures across the national capital region. These steps include a temporary halt to all construction activities and a ban on inter-state buses and trucks operating in the densely populated urban area, aimed at mitigating the dire situation.
What all is banned under GRAP 3
The enforcement of GRAP-III specifically prohibits any non-essential construction and demolition activities that could further exacerbate the pollution crisis. Additionally, vehicles that run on petrol and adhere to the outdated BS-III emission standards, as well as diesel vehicles meeting the less stringent BS-IV standards, will face restrictions from operating on roads within Delhi and adjoining regions of the National Capital Region (NCR), such as Gurugram, Ghaziabad, Faridabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), a wide range of activities, including road construction, boring and drilling work, laying sewer lines, and drainage work are strictly prohibited as part of the Comprehensive Action Plan designed to combat air pollution in Delhi. The loading and unloading of construction materials and the movement of vehicles on unpaved roads are also banned to curb dust and particulate matter.
Moreover, as part of the third phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), a strict clampdown will be placed on the operation of inter-state buses from neighboring NCR states, with exceptions only for electric vehicles, CNG vehicles, and BS-VI compliant diesel buses, which are permitted to enter Delhi.
In the ongoing battle against harmful emissions, limitations will target the operation of BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi, as well as the districts of Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar, pushing towards a cleaner urban environment.
How can residents contribute to improving air quality in Delhi while the government implements long-term solutions?
**Interview with Chief Minister Atishi on Delhi’s Air Pollution Crisis**
**Interviewer:** Good afternoon, Chief Minister Atishi. Thank you for joining us today. Delhi is currently facing unprecedented levels of air pollution, with the Air Quality Index soaring to 428. Can you explain what led to the decision to close schools and shift to virtual classes?
**Atishi:** Good afternoon. Thank you for having me. The decision to close all primary schools in Delhi and transition to online classes was made in response to the alarming air quality levels we are witnessing. An AQI of 428 is extremely concerning, especially for our children and vulnerable populations. The health and safety of our students are our top priority, and we cannot overlook the grave risks posed by such toxic air.
**Interviewer:** The figures you’ve quoted are indeed alarming. Can you tell us more about the areas that are most affected and what specific measures are being put in place to address this crisis?
**Atishi:** Certainly. Areas like Anand Vihar and the vicinity around the Indira Gandhi International Airport are among the hardest hit, with AQI levels consistently exceeding 400. In response, we’ve activated GRAP-III measures, which include a temporary suspension of construction activities, increased monitoring, and efforts to curb vehicular emissions. It’s vital that we take immediate action to mitigate further damage while also working towards long-term solutions to improve Delhi’s air quality.
**Interviewer:** There seems to be a growing concern among residents about the health impacts of this pollution. What advice can you give to the people of Delhi during this crisis?
**Atishi:** It’s crucial for everyone to stay indoors as much as possible, especially individuals with pre-existing health conditions, children, and the elderly. We recommend using air purifiers, wearing masks when going outside, and keeping windows closed to minimize exposure. We are also ramping up public health communications to inform residents about practical steps they can take during these severe pollution episodes.
**Interviewer:** How can the government ensure that such severe pollution levels are tackled in the long term, beyond immediate measures?
**Atishi:** Long-term solutions require a multi-faceted approach. This includes enhancing public transport, promoting green energy initiatives, and strict regulations on industrial emissions. We are also advocating for greater cooperation among neighboring states to address pollution sources common to the NCR. Our focus will be on sustainable development and creating a cleaner environment for future generations.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Chief Minister Atishi, for sharing your insights on this pressing issue. We hope to see effective solutions implemented soon to protect the citizens of Delhi.
**Atishi:** Thank you for having me. Together, we can combat this crisis and make Delhi a healthier place for everyone.
