Delhi Faces Severe Air Pollution: Schools Shift Online, Restrictions Imposed
Delhi Faces Severe Air Pollution Crisis
Air Quality Deteriorates to 'Severe Plus'
On Monday morning, Delhi's air quality worsened significantly, with a thick smog covering the city. The Air Quality Index (AQI) reached a 'severe plus' level of 483, according to the Central Pollution Control Board. Residents reported breathing difficulties and eye irritation, while toxic foam was observed on the Yamuna River.
Impact on Daily Life
Despite the smog, train services continued, and Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) assured that flight operations were normal, advising passengers to check with airlines for updates. In Agra, the Taj Mahal was shrouded in haze, with air quality in the 'Poor' category.
Government Response
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced the suspension of physical classes for students, except for grades 10 and 12, due to the implementation of GRAP-4. Online classes will be conducted until further notice. Environment Minister Gopal Rai will meet with department heads to ensure effective GRAP IV implementation.
Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
The GRAP for the National Capital Region (NCR) includes four stages of air quality response. Stage IV, 'Severe Plus,' involves an 8-point action plan, including restrictions on non-essential truck traffic and construction activities. State governments are advised to consider online classes for more students and reduce office attendance.
Public Cooperation and Monitoring
The CAQM urges citizens to cooperate with measures and stay indoors, especially vulnerable groups. The situation will be monitored closely for further action.
Doubts Revealed
Air Pollution
Air pollution is when harmful substances mix with the air, making it dirty and unsafe to breathe. In Delhi, this pollution is very high, causing health problems.
AQI
AQI stands for Air Quality Index. It is a number that shows how clean or polluted the air is. A higher number means the air is more polluted.
Severe Plus
Severe Plus is a category in the AQI that indicates extremely poor air quality. It means the air is very unhealthy to breathe.
Yamuna River
The Yamuna River is a major river in India that flows through Delhi. Toxic foam on the river is caused by pollution and chemicals in the water.
GRAP-4
GRAP-4 stands for Graded Response Action Plan, level 4. It includes strict measures to control air pollution, like stopping construction and limiting vehicles.
CAQM
CAQM stands for Commission for Air Quality Management. It is a group that works to improve air quality and reduce pollution in Delhi and nearby areas.
Visibility
Visibility refers to how far you can see clearly. In Delhi, haze from pollution makes it hard to see things like the Taj Mahal clearly.
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