The Highlights:
In a landmark development, the Supreme Court has directed the Commission for Air Quality Management to ascertain expeditiously the possibility of reopening physical classes in all schools and educational institutions situated in Delhi as well as the National Capital Region. The decision comes following prolonged school closure in the city due to poor air quality that has marred students’ education as well as disturbed their overall well-being. Effect of Continuous School Shutdown on Students
In-person classes suspended for an extended period of time:
This has drawn several questions:
- Insufficient In-class Learning: Many students are deprived of Internet and other digital tools, thus most of them do not get to learn much.
- Matriculation Challenges: Following the collapse of a few schools, the main source of breakfast for most children has been disrupted.
- Health Factors: School closures, in theory, are intended to safeguard children from noxious air quality. However, students live in homes with no air purifiers to cleanse the air; hence, they find no haven from polluted air.
Observations by Supreme Court
The Supreme Court, holding that it was necessary to balance health concerns against the adverse effects of prolonged school closure, noted that most students miss out on mid-day meals and do not possess facilities to be involved in online education. Moreover, air purifiers are absent from homes to ensure that staying indoors is not a guarantee of children being shielded from poor air quality. The court exhorted the CAQM to promptly make an order under the Act, considering these multifaceted challenges.
Present Scenario of Air Quality
Recent statistics show the air quality in Delhi is slightly improving with an index in the ‘very poor’ category from ‘severe’. This issue still attracts concern to the appropriate measures for public health in the city.
Government Action and Steps
The Delhi government has made certain moves in response to a notice issued by the Supreme Court:
- A Review of School Operations: The government reviews the possibility of school re-opening, especially to senior classes, amid prudent adherence to health advisories.
- The Enhancement in Air Quality Monitoring: The government increases monitoring of air quality and interventions meant to reduce sources of pollution.
- Support for Vulnerable People: Sourcing relief for the daily wage earners and workers whose income is directly impacted by the construction bans at GRAP IV, the government is working on how to assist them financially and in terms of alternative sources of employment.
Public Health Advisory
Health specialists are still urging people to be cautious:
- Low Coverage of Outdoor Activities: Especially for children, elderly, or those with respiratory problems.
- Don a Mask: Wearing N95 can minimize the pulmonary entrance of particulate.
- Indoor Air Quality: Improved indoor air quality through the use of air purifiers and well-ventilated indoor places can reduce indoor pollutant exposure.
Conclusion
The proactive move by the Supreme Court emphasizes the urgency to address the issues of students’ educational and nutritionary needs side by side along with public health concerns. The CAQM is holding a discussion on resuming physical classes; at this point, a balanced approach should be undertaken for kids’ health safety without giving in on their rights to education and nutrition.
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