As Delhi grapples with a severe air pollution crisis, parents’ associations are urgently petitioning for a shift to online classes. The city woke up to a thick smog on Monday, with air quality plunging into the ‘very poor’ category according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Experts warn this could escalate to the ‘severe’ level imminently, raising grave concerns for children’s health.
Parents highlight that the toxic air is causing widespread illness among students, making physical school attendance a significant health risk. Many children are reportedly suffering from coughs and other respiratory issues, with some expressing reluctance to even wear masks. The Delhi Parents’ Association president emphasized the growing difficulty for children to cope with the polluted environment.
Calls are also being made for a temporary suspension of all outdoor school activities, including assemblies, sports, and field trips, until air quality improves to ‘moderate’ levels. There are also appeals for the Directorate of Education to issue daily health advisories based on the Air Quality Index (AQI) to guide schools and families. The right to breathe clean air is being prioritized over physical attendance, especially for developing lungs.
Meanwhile, resident welfare associations are criticizing authorities for a lack of preparedness. Questions are being raised about the absence of clear emergency measures and public health interventions when pollution levels exceed 500 AQI. The lack of mandated mask-wearing and provisions for free treatment for pollution-related ailments in private hospitals are also points of contention. Data from the CPCB’s Sameer app reveals alarming AQI readings in several Delhi areas, with some reaching the ‘severe’ category. The current classification system highlights the critical state of air quality, with most of the city experiencing ‘very poor’ conditions.