'Putting children in gas chamber': SC advises against outdoor sports
What's the story
The Supreme Court has requested the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to issue directions against holding outdoor sports activities in schools until further notice, in light of the severe air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR). The court's order was passed by a bench headed by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justice K Vinod Chandran.
Health concerns
Court highlights risks of outdoor sports during pollution peak
The court was informed by amicus curiae that schools continue to hold sports competitions in November-December, which is a peak period for air pollution. "Children are most vulnerable; holding sports now is like putting them in gas chambers," senior Advocate Aparajita Singh submitted. The bench then passed the following direction: "We request CAQM to take this into consideration and issue necessary directions to shift such sport competition to safer months."
Ongoing monitoring
SC mandates monthly hearings on Delhi's air quality
The Supreme Court also ordered monthly hearings on Delhi's air quality to keep a close watch on the steps being taken by authorities. The court emphasized that pollution control measures should not only be implemented during peak pollution periods but also monitored regularly for effective implementation. It directed action taken reports by CAQM and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) to be filed regularly.
Resource concerns
Court addresses manpower issues in pollution control
The amicus curiae had also raised concerns about the lack of manpower with state pollution control boards. They pointed out that while there have been long-term policies and graded response plans in place since 2015, implementation on the ground is often lacking due to insufficient resources. In response, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati assured that action taken reports would be filed regularly to address these concerns.