As air quality in the national capital continues to deteriorate, the Delhi government has instructed all schools, colleges, and sports institutions to postpone outdoor sports events until further notice. With pollution levels rising sharply this winter, authorities say the decision is essential to safeguard children’s health.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) scale categorizes 0–50 as ‘good’, 51–100 ‘satisfactory’, 101–200 ‘moderate’, 201–300 ‘poor’, 301–400 ‘very poor’, and 401–500 ‘severe’. Over the last few days, several parts of Delhi have recorded AQI levels between 350 and 450, pushing the city into the “very poor” and “severe” zones.
Following recommendations from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), the Directorate of Education and Sports issued an advisory to all government, private, MCD, NDMC and Delhi Cantonment Board schools. The directive urges institutions to immediately suspend all strenuous outdoor activities, including athletic meets, sports tournaments, and practice sessions.
Health experts have welcomed the move, warning that exposure to highly polluted air during physical exertion can severely impact children’s lungs. During winter, stagnant and cold air traps pollutants closer to the ground, increasing the risk of respiratory infections, breathing difficulties, and long-term lung damage—especially in children and young athletes.
Schools are now exploring alternatives such as indoor sports activities and virtual fitness sessions. Authorities added that new dates for sporting events will be announced once air quality improves.
The government’s decision highlights growing concerns over Delhi’s recurring pollution crisis and its direct impact on public health, particularly among school-going children.
