Tue Nov 19 10:38:09 UTC 2024: **Delhi Schools Remain Closed Amidst Record-Breaking Air Pollution Crisis**

**NEW DELHI** – The Supreme Court of India has reprimanded the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its delayed response to Delhi’s severe air pollution crisis, keeping schools closed and GRAP 4 restrictions in place. The court’s decision follows a day of record-breaking air quality, with a 24-hour average AQI reaching 494 – possibly the worst Delhi has ever seen, considering the current extensive monitoring network.

The court criticized the CAQM for delaying the implementation of GRAP 3 and 4 restrictions, stating that the inaction contributed to the current crisis. Justice Oka and Justice Masih expressed their frustration with the three-day delay in imposing GRAP 3 curbs, which should have been enacted on November 12th. The court mandated the continued implementation of GRAP 4 restrictions, including a ban on construction and half-strength staffing in public and private offices, until further notice, even if the AQI falls below 450. Schools will remain closed in the National Capital Region (NCR) for classes 1-9 and 11, with the court directing Delhi and NCR states to decide on online classes for all students by Friday.

The poor air quality is attributed to a combination of factors: a sudden temperature drop, shifting wind patterns, reduced wind speeds, local vehicular pollution, and smoke from farm fires in Punjab. While the CAQM argued that it delayed action based on meteorological predictions of improved conditions, the court rejected this rationale, stating that such risks cannot be taken in a crisis of this magnitude.

The court also highlighted discrepancies in farm fire data, noting that while Punjab and Haryana reported a decline, data from a Korean geostationary satellite suggests a higher incidence of fires than previously acknowledged. The court directed the Centre and CAQM to obtain comprehensive farm fire data from October 1st onwards to assist in future preventative measures. The court emphasized the constitutional obligation of the Centre and states to ensure a pollution-free environment for citizens and directed the CAQM to consider further restrictions under GRAP 3 and 4. The matter will be reviewed again on Friday.

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