New Delhi, November 22, 2024: The Supreme Court of India is hearing a plea filed by a group of parents challenging the closure of schools in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) due to the severe air pollution crisis. The parents argue that while the air quality is indeed alarming, shutting down schools disproportionately affects underprivileged children who rely on schools for basic amenities like clean air and meals.
The Supreme Court’s Intervention
On November 18, 2024, the Supreme Court directed all NCR states to temporarily suspend physical classes for all school students up to grade 12. This decision came after a plea filed by senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, who highlighted the alarming air quality levels and the potential health risks to children.
The court also ordered the implementation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV, which mandates stricter measures to combat air pollution, including restrictions on construction activities, traffic, and industrial operations.
Parents’ Concerns
A group of eight parents has filed an application in the Supreme Court, arguing that school closures are not a sustainable solution to the air pollution problem. They contend that:
- Not all houses in Delhi have clean air, especially for underprivileged families living in densely populated areas.
- School closures disrupt the education of children, particularly those from economically weaker backgrounds who rely on schools for meals and other essential services.
- The government should focus on long-term solutions to address air pollution, rather than resorting to temporary measures like school closures.
The parents’ plea has raised important questions about the impact of air pollution on children’s health and education, as well as the effectiveness of school closures as a mitigation strategy.
The Role of Schools in Providing Clean Air and Essential Services
Schools play a crucial role in providing a safe and healthy learning environment for children. In many cases, schools are the only places where children can access clean air, nutritious meals, and other essential services. For underprivileged children, schools often provide a much cleaner and safer environment than their homes.
The Impact of Air Pollution on Children’s Health
Air pollution poses serious health risks to children, including respiratory infections, asthma, and long-term lung damage. Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution because their lungs are still developing. Exposure to polluted air can impair cognitive development and academic performance.
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The Need for Long-Term Solutions
While school closures may be a necessary short-term measure to protect children’s health, long-term solutions are needed to address the root causes of air pollution. These solutions include:
- Stricter regulations on emissions from vehicles, industries, and power plants
- Promotion of public transportation and non-motorized transport
- Encouraging the use of cleaner fuels
- Afforestation and greening of urban areas
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s decision to close schools in Delhi and NCR has sparked a debate about the impact of air pollution on children’s health and education. While the immediate health concerns are significant, it is essential to consider the long-term consequences of school closures on children’s education and well-being.
It is imperative for the government and policymakers to take urgent action to address the air pollution crisis and implement comprehensive measures to improve air quality. This includes not only short-term measures like school closures but also long-term solutions that address the root causes of air pollution.
It is hoped that the Supreme Court will consider the concerns raised by the parents and take a balanced approach that prioritizes the health and education of all children.
