Haryana Government Closes Schools up to Class 5 Due to Rising Air Pollution
Haryana Government Closes: In response to increasing air pollution levels, the Haryana government has announced the temporary closure of all schools up to class 5. The decision follows the worsening air quality in the region and aims to protect the health of young children. The authorities also indicated that online classes might soon be introduced in both government and private schools.
Air Quality in Haryana
The air quality in Haryana has been severely affected, with Jind recording an air quality index (AQI) in the "severe" category. Several other regions in the state, as well as areas in neighboring Punjab, have reported AQI levels between "poor" and "very poor." These conditions have raised concerns for public health, prompting the government to take action.
Delhi's Air Quality Situation
Meanwhile, in the national capital, Delhi's air quality has remained in the "severe" category for the fourth consecutive day. On Saturday morning, the AQI in Delhi was recorded at 407, significantly higher than the safe limits. The ongoing pollution crisis has led to multiple measures being taken by local authorities.
Government Measures
The restrictions in Haryana are part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which was activated earlier this week by the Commission for Air Quality Management. This plan includes measures like the closure of schools and other steps to reduce exposure to harmful air quality.
Delhi’s Measures
On Friday, the Delhi government imposed a ban on private BS III petrol and BS IV diesel vehicles, with fines of Rs. 20,000 for violations. It also prohibited the entry of diesel and petrol inter-state buses from NCR cities into Delhi. Additionally, certain types of construction activities have been banned, and government office timings have been staggered to reduce outdoor exposure.
School Closures and Online Learning
Delhi's Chief Minister Atishi announced that all schools up to class 5 will continue with online classes until further notice. Measures are also being taken to protect older students who still attend schools in person, including mandatory N95 masks and restricted outdoor activities.
Health Concerns
The deteriorating air quality has resulted in a sharp increase in respiratory and chest infections in hospitals. The concentration of PM2.5 pollutants, which are harmful particles that can cause severe health issues, was found to be over 26 times higher than the World Health Organization's recommended daily limit in Delhi on Friday morning.
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SUMMARY
The Haryana government has temporarily closed all schools up to class 5 due to rising air pollution levels, with plans for online classes in both government and private schools. The air quality in Haryana, particularly in Jind, is categorized as "severe," while neighboring Punjab and Delhi are also experiencing poor air quality. Delhi's air quality remained "severe" for the fourth consecutive day, prompting the imposition of stricter measures, including the ban on certain vehicles and construction activities. Additionally, Delhi has switched to online learning for primary schools, and older students are required to wear N95 masks. The worsening air quality has also led to an increase in respiratory problems.
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