New Delhi, November 25, 2024: The Supreme Court ruled on Monday that schools in the National Capital Region (NCR) should remain operational despite high pollution levels, emphasizing the challenges that would arise if students were kept at home. However, the court clarified that the final decision rests with the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
The court noted that many students do not have access to air purifiers in their homes, meaning staying at home would not significantly reduce exposure to pollutants. It also highlighted the lack of resources for online education among many students, which could cause them to fall behind in their studies if schools remained closed. Additionally, the court pointed out that many children are missing out on midday meals due to the continued closure of schools and anganwadis.
“Let the commission take a decision at the earliest, even without a copy of the order… we expect a decision to be taken latest by today or tomorrow morning,” the judges stated in their ruling.
The court also addressed the negative impact of the implementation of GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) 4 guidelines, which have affected various sections of society, particularly laborers and daily wagers. The judges directed the CAQM to take mitigating measures under Section 12 of the Air Quality Management Act to ensure that these groups do not suffer due to the pollution restrictions.
A report on the Air Quality Index (AQI) for the NCR region, covering November 20-23, showed levels ranging from 300 to 419, indicating hazardous pollution levels. The court ordered the CAQM to provide updated data on air quality in the region, so the court can consider further action on the Grade 4 measures.
The decision leaves the door open for the CAQM to take immediate action based on the evolving air quality situation in the region.
