Poor Air Quality
New Delhi, Dec 14: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has directed Delhi and NCR state governments to ensure the immediate suspension of all outdoor physical sports activities, warning that continued conduct of such events amid poor air quality poses a “serious health risk to children”.
In a letter to the chief secretaries of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh on Saturday, the Commission said it was concerned that “some schools and institutions in Delhi-NCR were still holding outdoor sports activities” despite earlier directions issued in line with a Supreme Court order dated November 19.
The CAQM said continuation of outdoor physical activities during periods of adverse air quality is “contrary to the spirit and intent of the apex court’s observations and the Commission’s instructions”.
The Commission had in a letter dated November 19 called for the “postponement of physical sports competitions scheduled during November and December”.
It directed the NCR state governments and the Delhi government to ensure strict and immediate compliance with the earlier instructions, issue necessary directions to all schools, educational institutions, sports bodies and local authorities to discontinue outdoor physical sports activities and sensitise schools and parents about the health risks involved.
The CAQM also asked authorities to closely monitor compliance at the field level and take appropriate action in case of any violation.
The panel on Saturday invoked the strictest measures under its air pollution control plan, GRAP, including a ban on all construction and demolition activities in Delhi-NCR after pollution levels rose sharply amid unfavourable meteorological conditions.
Under Stage IV of GRAP, the entry of trucks into Delhi is stopped, except those carrying essential commodities or providing essential services. However, CNG, LNG, electric and BS-VI diesel trucks are allowed. (PTI)
