Severe Air Quality Forces Suspension of Outdoor Sports in Delhi-NCR

NEW DELHI: The air quality in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) has deteriorated to a 'severe plus' level, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to issue an urgent directive. On Saturday, the CAQM instructed the state governments of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh to immediately suspend all outdoor sports activities, citing significant health risks, particularly for children.

In a formal communication to the chief secretaries of the affected states, the CAQM expressed concern regarding reports that some schools and institutions were continuing outdoor sports activities despite previous directives. These earlier instructions were aligned with a Supreme Court ruling issued on November 19, which advised against outdoor activities during periods of poor air quality.

The Commission stated, "Allowing outdoor physical activities during adverse air quality contradicts the spirit and intent of the Supreme Court's observations and the Commission's guidelines." This directive was part of the CAQM's enforcement of the strictest measures under its Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), Stage IV, initiated after pollution levels spiked due to unfavourable weather conditions.

Previously, the CAQM had requested a postponement of physical sports competitions scheduled for November and December in a letter dated November 19. In light of the current situation, the Commission has mandated that the Delhi government and the NCR states ensure strict compliance with its directives. They are also tasked with informing schools, educational institutions, sports bodies, and local authorities to halt outdoor sports activities and to educate parents about the associated health risks.

Authorities have been directed to monitor compliance closely and to take necessary action against any violations of the order. Under the restrictions imposed by GRAP IV, all construction and demolition activities within Delhi-NCR have been prohibited. This includes public infrastructure projects such as highways, roads, and power transmission lines.

The entry of trucks into Delhi has been restricted, allowing only those transporting essential goods or services. Trucks operating on compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), electric power, or meeting the Bharat Stage VI diesel standards are exempt from this ban.

Schools affected by the pollution crisis have been instructed to conduct classes in a hybrid format for students from primary up to Classes VI, IX, and XI, offering online attendance options where feasible. Additionally, state governments have been urged to consider further emergency measures if air quality deteriorates, which may include the closure of colleges and educational institutions, halting non-essential commercial activities, and introducing odd-even vehicle restrictions to manage traffic and reduce pollution.