Delhi’s Toxic Air Prompts SC to Recommend School Sports Delay

The Supreme Court has taken note of Delhi’s severe air pollution and suggested a postponement of school sports activities. The Court has asked the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to consider advising schools within the Delhi-NCR to delay sports events and competitions scheduled for November and December. The Court’s view is that these events can be organized later when the air quality in the capital improves significantly. A strong emphasis was placed on authorities to take proactive steps to mitigate pollution, taking into account the concerns of all stakeholders. The Supreme Court also ordered that air pollution cases be brought before the court monthly. As part of relief measures, the court has ordered the provision of a subsistence allowance for construction workers whose work has been halted due to the enforcement of GRAP-3 restrictions in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. These states are urged to maintain their pollution control measures and conduct regular reviews.