NEW DELHI: The Commission for Air Quality Management has issued directives to Delhi and NCR state governments on December 14 to immediately halt all outdoor physical sports activities. The move comes after concerns about schools continuing outdoor activities despite poor air quality, with the commission warning about serious health risks to children and implementing Stage IV restrictions under its pollution control plan.
The CAQM sent letters to chief secretaries of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh expressing concern over schools continuing outdoor sports despite earlier directions aligned with a Supreme Court order from November 19.
"Some schools and institutions in Delhi-NCR were still holding outdoor sports activities," the Commission noted in its letter, adding that such activities during poor air quality were "contrary to the spirit and intent of the apex court's observations and the Commission's instructions."
The Commission had previously requested the postponement of physical sports competitions scheduled for November and December in a letter dated November 19.
State authorities have been instructed to ensure strict compliance, issue necessary directions to educational institutions and sports bodies, and sensitize schools and parents about health risks. They must also monitor compliance and take action against violations.
The CAQM activated the strictest measures under GRAP on Saturday following a sharp rise in pollution levels due to unfavorable weather conditions.
Under Stage IV restrictions, only essential trucks with CNG, LNG, electric, and BS-VI diesel engines are allowed to enter Delhi. Delhi-registered diesel heavy goods vehicles face restrictions, with exceptions for essential services.
All construction activities are prohibited, including linear public projects like highways, roads, flyovers, and telecom works that are typically permitted in lower stages.
Schools must operate in a hybrid mode for all classes, including primary and higher grades, in Delhi and affected NCR districts. Students have the option to attend classes online where possible.
State governments may consider additional emergency measures like closing educational institutions, restricting non-essential commercial activities, and implementing odd-even vehicle rules if pollution worsens.
The Delhi-NCR region implements GRAP restrictions during winters, with air quality categorized into four stages: Stage I (Poor, AQI 201-300), Stage II (Very Poor, AQI 301-400), Stage III (Severe, AQI 401-450), and Stage IV (Severe Plus, AQI above 450).
Winter air quality in Delhi-NCR typically deteriorates due to a combination of unfavorable weather conditions, vehicle emissions, paddy-straw burning, firecrackers, and other local pollution sources.
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