Delhi is grappling with an unprecedented air quality crisis as the Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached hazardous levels, touching 999 in some areas, prompting the activation of Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-4). In response to the crisis, most schools in Delhi have been forced to close, transitioning to online classes for the majority of students, with Classes 10 and 12 being exceptions. This marks another dire chapter in Delhi’s struggle with air pollution, which has become an annual and worsening issue despite over 40 years of government efforts.

As a result of the extreme pollution levels, public health has become a significant concern, with medical professionals describing the air quality as akin to living in a gas chamber. This has raised alarms about long-term health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Recent reports indicate that 69% of families in Delhi-NCR have experienced pollution-related illnesses, underscoring the dire health impact of the crisis.

The situation has triggered widespread frustration across social media, with many citizens expressing outrage over the government's handling of the situation. Despite the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-4) being in effect, which includes school closures, restricted vehicular traffic, and measures to limit industrial pollution, public discontent persists. Citizens are questioning the government’s commitment to finding long-term solutions to the issue, which they argue is compounded by years of delays in implementing effective pollution control measures.

The Supreme Court has intervened, taking note of the dire air quality and the health risks to residents. It has criticized the government for its slow response and the lack of immediate solutions to tackle the pollution problem effectively. The court is actively pushing for stricter enforcement of existing policies and implementation of better pollution control measures. The government is under intense scrutiny, with calls for more comprehensive long-term plans to address the pollution crisis that impacts Delhi NCR every year.

In this crisis, Delhi’s residents, particularly students, face a significant disruption. The shift to online classes for the majority of students marks a challenge for educational institutions, which are now grappling with how to manage both health and educational needs during this unprecedented air quality crisis. The ongoing public health emergency is causing increasing concern, with many calling for urgent action from both the state and central governments.

As Delhi faces this environmental and public health emergency, citizens demand accountability and action to prevent further harm. The pollution crisis has pushed government authorities to take measures, but the growing public outcry suggests that only sustained action and long-term solutions will be enough to address the pollution that continues to threaten Delhi’s residents.

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