Supreme Court Advises Halting School Sports Amid Delhi Smog

The Supreme Court of India has called upon the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to consider advising schools in the Delhi-NCR region to delay outdoor sports and athletic events. This directive aims to protect children from the severe air pollution currently plaguing the region, with AQI levels reaching hazardous thresholds. The court expressed strong concern, with one senior advocate describing the situation as akin to ‘putting children in gas chambers’. The advisory covers events planned for November and December, suggesting they be moved to more favorable months. This development occurred during a hearing on the ongoing air pollution crisis in the NCR. In a related directive, the Supreme Court ordered that construction workers affected by the ban on construction activities be paid an allowance. Governments in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan were also instructed to implement and regularly assess pollution reduction strategies. The court reiterated its commitment to addressing air pollution by requiring the matter to be listed monthly.