Is CAQM Enforcing SC Order on Outdoor Sports Amid Poor Air Quality?
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Synopsis
The CAQM has mandated strict compliance with the Supreme Court's order to halt outdoor sports in Delhi and NCR due to deteriorating air quality. With alarming AQI levels, the health of children is at stake, prompting immediate action from state governments.
Key Takeaways
- CAQM has mandated suspension of outdoor sports during poor air quality.
- Supreme Court's order
- State governments must comply with these directives.
- Monitoring compliance is crucial for public health.
- Delhi's air quality remains in the 'Severe' category.
New Delhi, Dec 14 (NationPress) The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has instructed the governments of Delhi and neighboring NCR states to ensure immediate and strict adherence to the Supreme Court’s ruling that calls for the postponement of outdoor physical sports events during times of poor air quality.
In a draft communication dated December 13, which was shared on X, the CAQM expressed concern that despite previous clear directives, several schools and institutions in the Delhi-NCR region are still conducting outdoor sports activities, thereby potentially exposing children to serious health risks.
The directive originates from a November 19 order from the Supreme Court in the MC Mehta vs Union of India case, which highlighted the dangers that deteriorating air quality poses, particularly to children.
In response to the court's observations, the CAQM had previously instructed states to delay outdoor sports competitions planned for November and December.
The CAQM noted that the current air pollution levels across the NCR remain critical, making outdoor activities contrary to the essence and intent of the Supreme Court's directives.
The draft requests that the Chief Secretaries of Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh issue new instructions to all schools, educational institutions, sporting bodies, and local authorities to suspend outdoor physical sports activities immediately. The Commission also underscored the necessity of educating schools and parents about the health risks associated with exposure to polluted air.
Furthermore, state governments are urged to closely monitor compliance at the ground level and take necessary action in the event of any violations. The Commission stressed that continuing outdoor sports during times of poor air quality represents a significant threat to children's respiratory health.
This communication has been issued with the approval of the relevant authority and has been distributed to key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, the Sports Authority of India, the School Games Federation of India, and the pollution control boards of NCR states.
As air quality in the national capital worsens, the CAQM invoked Stage-III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR on Saturday, designating the region as 'Severe' in terms of pollution.
This decision was made after the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi surpassed the 400 threshold on Friday morning, reaching 401 by 10 a.m.
Point of View
I emphasize the need for urgent action regarding air quality management. The health risks posed by pollution cannot be overlooked, especially when it concerns our children. The CAQM's directive highlights the critical importance of prioritizing public health over recreational activities during adverse air quality conditions.
NationPress
15/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CAQM's directive about outdoor sports?
The CAQM has directed that outdoor sports competitions should be postponed during periods of poor air quality, as mandated by the Supreme Court.
Why was the Supreme Court involved?
The Supreme Court recognized the serious health risks posed by deteriorating air quality, especially for children, and issued orders to protect their health.
What actions are state governments required to take?
State governments must issue fresh instructions to schools and sports bodies to halt outdoor activities and monitor compliance closely.
What is the current air quality status in Delhi?
Delhi's air quality index has reached severe levels, prompting the CAQM to invoke Stage-III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan.
What risks do children face from polluted air?
Children are particularly vulnerable to respiratory issues caused by exposure to polluted air, which can have long-term health implications.
