Delhi: The Delhi government has ordered schools to suspend all outdoor activities and sports following a sharp deterioration in air quality to the ‘severe’ category. The directive follows Supreme Court instructions asking the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to consider halting school sports scheduled for November and December.
Official Advisory and Health Warnings
In its advisory, the CAQM—the air pollution watchdog for Delhi-NCR—mandated postponement of all sports competitions due to severe pollution levels, stating current air quality poses “significant health risks to children.” The directive extends to all universities, colleges, and recognized sports associations across Delhi-NCR.
This week, Delhi’s air quality plunged to hazardous levels, fluctuating between ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ categories. Friday’s average AQI reached 373, equivalent to smoking nearly 10-11 cigarettes daily.
Judicial Intervention
The Supreme Court expressed concern Wednesday, suggesting sports competitions be shifted to safer months before directing CAQM to issue school guidelines. The amicus curiae assisting the court argued that holding outdoor activities during November and December amounts to “virtually putting school-going children in a ‘gas chamber.'”
The Delhi High Court similarly addressed the issue Wednesday, stating the Delhi government was “shirking its responsibility” by permitting sports activities during this hazardous period.
Medical Evidence Supporting Action
Medical professionals have long warned children face greater vulnerability to polluted air than adults. Their developing lungs, faster breathing rates, increased outdoor time, and smaller bodies cause them to absorb more pollutants per breath.
Studies demonstrate prolonged PM2.5 and PM10 exposure reduces lung capacity, permanently alters respiratory development, triggers asthma, weakens immunity, and affects cognitive performance.
Ground Reality
For Delhi families, pollution has evolved from abstract health concern to seasonal crisis marked by inhalers, persistent coughs, cancelled playtime, and rising pediatric consultations. Paediatric pulmonologists report hospital visits spike sharply each November, often increasing 30-40%.
Public Health Emergency
The coordinated response from government, judiciary, and health authorities reflects growing recognition of Delhi’s air quality crisis as a public health emergency requiring immediate intervention. The suspension of outdoor school activities acknowledges that normal routines cannot continue during severe pollution episodes without endangering children’s long-term health.
Authorities continue monitoring air quality while evaluating additional protective measures for vulnerable populations during winter months when pollution traditionally peaks across the National Capital Region.
