Vikrant Shekhawat : Nov 18, 2024, 05:29 PM
Delhi NCR Pollution: The rising air pollution in Delhi-NCR has once again made the situation worrying. On Sunday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the region crossed 460, which is placed in the "severe" category. In view of this serious situation, the Air Quality Management Committee of the Central Government decided to implement the fourth phase of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Along with this, the Supreme Court has directed to take strict steps to reduce the impact of air pollution.School-college closed and instructions for online classesIn view of the worsening situation of pollution, the Supreme Court has ordered the closure of all schools and colleges in Delhi-NCR. It has been recommended to continue the education of students from class 1 to 12 through online medium. District Education Officers have sent instructions to all schools and colleges through email to follow these orders with immediate effect.This step has been taken to protect children and youth from toxic air. Classes for younger children were already closed, and now it has been decided to close colleges along with 11th-12th classes.Supreme Court's tough standOn Monday, the Supreme Court made it clear during the hearing that the restrictions imposed under GRAP-4 will continue until there is a significant improvement in the AQI. The Supreme Court also said that it would be necessary to seek permission from the court to remove GRAP-4.Other restrictions in Delhi-NCRIn view of the severity of pollution in Delhi, several steps have been taken since Monday morning:Only CNG and electric vehicles have been allowed to enter Delhi.Entry of heavy and diesel vehicles has been banned.The odd-even system is being considered to be re-implemented.It has been recommended to seek help from ISRO to monitor and prevent incidents of stubble burning.The second most polluted city in the countryAccording to the data of the last 24 hours, Delhi was declared the second most polluted city in the country, while Bahadurgarh in Haryana remained in the first place.Supreme Court's strictness on stubble burningThe Supreme Court, taking a tough stand on the incidents of stubble burning, directed the central government to obtain data from stable satellites for accurate and quick action. This data will be given to the states so that they can take immediate steps.ConclusionAir pollution in Delhi-NCR has become a serious challenge, which requires strict steps to deal with. Amidst the tough decisions of the Supreme Court and the government, it remains to be seen how effective these measures are in improving air quality.