Supreme Court Refuses to Relax GRAP-4 Measures, Suggests Physical Classes in Delhi-NCR Schools

NEW DELHI, MARCH 14 (ANI): The Supreme Court on Monday refused to relax the strict Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-4 measures being enforced in Delhi-NCR to curb rising pollution, leaving educational institutions in a precarious position.

However, in a slight reprieve for hundreds of thousands of students across the National Capital Region (NCR), the top court suggested that schools can reopen for physical classes under specific conditions. The council, which regulates air quality management in the region, is directed to consider relaxing norms to allow schools to resume face-to-face learning.

The Supreme Court scathingly criticized authorities, ordering the Commission of Air Quality Management (CAQM) to take action against the Delhi government, city police, and other responsible parties for not adhering to its orders under GRAP-4. The apex court insisted that strict enforcement of air quality norms must be reinstated in light of ongoing pollution concerns.

In a related move, the Supreme Court ruled that state governments are duty-bound to utilize the Labour Cess collected from businesses involved in construction projects to accommodate the working conditions and subsidies of construction workers.

The current policy on educational institutions requires classes to operate online with teachers ensuring immediate communication with parents about any changes. However, despite government efforts to provide some relief through relaxation in norms under GRAP-4, there remains no official word on when physical lessons might start again.

Although Delhi's air quality showed minor improvements as of Monday morning, the 'poor' pollution levels remain a pressing concern for residents, especially vulnerable populations such as children and elderly citizens. It is also advised that precautions be taken to minimize exposure to hazardous pollutants despite recent progress.