Delhi/NCR Schools CLOSED? BJP calls for action amid Severe Air Pollution

On Wednesday, Delhi experienced its first dense fog of the season, contributing to the already poor air quality. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded as "very poor," further exacerbating health risks for the city's residents. The worsening conditions have led to increased public demand for urgent measures to address the air pollution crisis.

Delhi Air  Pollution! As air quality in Delhi continues to worsen, with hazardous levels of pollution choking the national capital, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has called for the urgent closure of all schools up to Class 5. On Wednesday, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva addressed a press conference, urging the Delhi government to take swift action to protect children from the harmful effects of the city’s toxic air.

Latest: Delhi Schools CLOSED amid Air Pollution; Online Classes until further directions

Will Delhi Schools be Closed amid Pollution?

Sachdeva, speaking on behalf of his party, expressed concern over the alarming levels of pollution in Delhi and its surrounding regions. He highlighted that both government and private schools should immediately shut down for the safety of children, who are particularly vulnerable to air pollution. “The pollution levels in Delhi have reached hazardous levels. With PM 2.5 concentrations crossing 400 and PM 10 levels surpassing 1,000, it is clear that immediate action is required,” Sachdeva said.

He also criticized the Delhi government, led by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), for its "utter failure" in managing the city’s pollution crisis. The BJP president pointed out that the Delhi government had not provided adequate health services, including government-run clinics, to mitigate the effects of air pollution, especially for children and the elderly.

Delhi Faces Severe Air Pollution Crisis

On Wednesday, Delhi experienced its first dense fog of the season, contributing to the already poor air quality. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded as "very poor," further exacerbating health risks for the city's residents. The worsening conditions have led to increased public demand for urgent measures to address the air pollution crisis.

As the air quality deteriorates, some schools in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) have already suspended outdoor activities. Many institutions have also advised students to wear masks to minimize the impact of air pollutants. Parents and opposition parties have been vocal in demanding the closure of schools, citing the health risks posed to children.

Schools in NCR Suspend Outdoor Activities Amid Pollution

In response to the escalating pollution levels, a top school in Gurugram informed parents via email that all outdoor activities would be suspended and that online classes would be conducted on November 14. The school encouraged students to wear masks, especially N95 masks, for protection against the hazardous air.

“Due to severe pollution levels, we are suspending all outdoor activities for the day. The school will closely monitor AQI levels throughout the day to ensure the safety and well-being of our students,” read the email sent to parents. The school further added that it would operate online on November 14 and would update parents about the plan for the following week by Sunday, November 17.

Schools Implementing Health Measures and Awareness Campaigns

Several other schools have implemented precautionary measures to protect students from the adverse effects of pollution. One Delhi school issued an advisory to parents, advising students to stay indoors during early mornings and late evenings when pollution levels are at their highest. The school has also restricted outdoor activities, including sports and physical education classes, until air quality improves.

In addition to recommending the use of N95 masks, the school has urged students to consider eco-friendly modes of transportation, such as carpooling, using CNG vehicles, or relying on public transportation like the metro or bicycles. The school also emphasized maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and ensuring proper ventilation in homes.

To raise awareness about the pollution crisis, peer educators at the school have been conducting sensitization programs for students, encouraging them to discuss and act on the issue. The school has also invited parents to contribute their suggestions and join the conversation on combating air pollution.

Government Under Scrutiny Amid Growing Health Concerns

As Delhi's air quality continues to decline, health experts have raised alarms about the long-term impact of exposure to toxic air, especially for children. The concentration of fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) is linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, and prolonged exposure can cause irreversible damage to lungs and other organs.

In light of these concerns, Delhi’s opposition parties, including the BJP, have ramped up their criticism of the AAP government for its handling of the pollution crisis. BJP leaders have accused the Delhi government of failing to implement effective measures to curb pollution, while the AAP has countered that the issue is beyond the city’s control due to factors like stubble burning in neighboring states.

The debate continues to intensify as the air quality in Delhi worsens, with no immediate relief in sight. Experts warn that if the pollution levels remain at these hazardous levels, the city could face a public health crisis, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

As residents brace for another day of choking smog, the demand for stronger government intervention and long-term solutions grows louder.

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