With the air quality in Delhi remaining in a 'severe' category for the past five days, the Centre's panel has decided to impose stage-4 restrictions under Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) from Monday. These measures will include a discontinuation of physical classes for all students except for class 10 and 12, and implementing online classes until further notice. This decision comes after the air quality index (AQI) crossed the 450-mark, prompting the authorities to take stricter anti-pollution measures.
Delhi's Air Pollution: A Severe Concern
Delhi, the national capital of India, has been grappling with severe air pollution for the past few days. The air quality index (AQI) has crossed the 450-mark, prompting the authorities to impose stage-4 restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Background
Air pollution in Delhi has been a persistent problem for many years. The city's air quality is poor due to a combination of factors, including:
The situation worsens during the winter months, when cooler temperatures trap pollutants near the ground.
Current Situation
The air quality in Delhi has been in the 'severe' category for the past five days. The AQI has remained above 450, which is considered hazardous. This means that breathing the air in Delhi is dangerous for everyone, especially for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory problems.
Government Measures
The government has taken several measures to combat air pollution in Delhi. These include:
FAQs
Q: What are the health effects of air pollution? A: Air pollution can cause a range of health problems, including respiratory problems, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
Q: What can I do to protect myself from air pollution? A: You can protect yourself from air pollution by wearing a mask, staying indoors as much as possible, and avoiding strenuous activities outdoors.
Q: What are the long-term impacts of air pollution on Delhi? A: Air pollution can have serious long-term impacts on Delhi, including increased healthcare costs, decreased tourism, and reduced economic growth.
Q: What can be done to solve the problem of air pollution in Delhi? A: The problem of air pollution in Delhi will require a multi-pronged approach, including reducing vehicular emissions, improving public transportation, and promoting cleaner energy sources.
Q: How can I stay informed about air quality in Delhi? A: You can stay informed about air quality in Delhi by checking the AQI on the website of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) or by downloading the CPCB's mobile app.
The Supreme Court is set to address the pressing issue of air pollution in Delhi as the city records an AQI of 481, placing it in the 'severe' category. The court is acting on a plea raised by Senior Advocate Aprajita Singh, who has emphasized the urgency of the situation. The government has implemented Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan, which includes restrictions on construction and demolition activities and possible implementation of Odd-Even restrictions.
As the Delhi-NCR is engulfed in a thick layer of toxic smog, the CM of Delhi announced the discontinuation of physical classes for all students except Classes 10 and 12. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has decided to implement an 8-point action plan under Stage-IV of the GRAP, including stricter restrictions on polluting vehicles and activities. The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some applauding the move and others facing difficulties with the sudden shift to online education.
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The Punjab and Haryana High Court has closed contempt of court proceedings against 274 followers of self-styled godman Sant Rampal, who were accused of sending a booklet criticizing a High Court judge in 2019. The Division Bench discharged the contemnors after they issued an unconditional apology. This case is possibly the largest number of persons ever charged for criminal contempt in a single matter, with 11 contemnors passing away during the pendency of the case.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah held a meeting with top officials to review the security situation in Manipur and directed them to take all necessary measures to maintain peace in the state. The meeting was held soon after Shah's return from Maharashtra, where he cancelled his election rallies. The move comes amid the volatile situation in Manipur due to ongoing ethnic strife and protests over the recovery of bodies of women and children.