The Delhi government has instructed all schools to suspend outdoor activities and sports as the city’s air quality deteriorated into the ‘severe’ category, according to India Today. This decision comes a day after the Supreme Court suggested that the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) consider advising schools to postpone sports events scheduled for November and December.

In a recent advisory, the CAQM, which monitors pollution in Delhi-NCR, warned that all sports competitions should be postponed due to hazardous pollution levels. The commission highlighted the serious health risks for children and emphasized that the advisory also applies to universities, colleges, and all recognized sports bodies across Delhi-NCR.

Delhi’s air quality has worsened throughout the week, fluctuating between ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ categories. On Friday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) remained firmly in the ‘severe’ range, heightening health concerns across the National Capital Region. Many residents reported breathing discomfort as pollution levels showed no sign of relief. At 8 am, the Anand Vihar monitoring station recorded an AQI of 418, marking the fourth consecutive day with readings near 420. Out of 39 monitoring stations in the city, 13 reported ‘severe’ air quality, pushing the average AQI to 372. According to CPCB standards, an AQI of 401–500 is classified as “severe,” 301–400 as “very poor,” 201–300 as “poor,” 101–200 as “moderate,” 51–100 as “satisfactory,” and 0–50 as “good.”

The worsening pollution has led parents and student groups to call for a shift to online classes. While the Delhi government is evaluating whether to implement GRAP IV restrictions, which could affect school operations, no official order to close schools or colleges has been issued so far. Families have been advised to stay alert for announcements regarding possible closures or online learning for younger students.

The seasonal smog and low visibility have been further intensified by the approaching winter. The India Meteorological Department has forecast temperatures 1.6–2°C below normal in the coming days, with minimum temperatures likely dropping into single digits soon. On Friday, morning temperatures are expected between 11 and 14°C, while daytime highs will range from 26 to 28°C, with clear skies and light fog or mist in early hours in most areas.