Gurgaon Schools gear to cope with rising pollution levels

Gurgaon: Amidst rising pollution levels, schools in the city have undertaken various measures to minimize the impact of air pollution.

While some schools have restricted physical education classes and outdoor sports, others have resorted to installing air purifiers to ensure that students get clean air to breathe.

"As there has been a spike in the air pollution levels again, the school administration, in consultation with the parents-students association, has decided to modify and re-organize sports classes and some annual events."

"All day trips have been suspended till the air quality improves. Depending on daily pollution levels, regular physical education classes that are scheduled in the morning will either be conducted indoors or will have very low aerobic activity. Pollution levels will be checked and monitored regularly by the school administration. Besides, outdoor after-school sports activities are also cancelled," Sapna Dimri, Principal (Junior Section), The Shri Ram School, said.

The school has also sought information from parents as to whether a child is prone to respiratory problems.

Lancers International School is also keeping a strong vigil over air pollution. "We're keeping a close watch on air pollution. We've installed a central air purifying system in our campus to supply clean air to students. When air quality deteriorates, we modify our outdoor activity plans and shift students indoors. Regular awareness sessions are held within the school to inform the community on how air quality can be improved. We have been successful in providing our students and staff with healthy air," said Rohit Mann, Director, Lancers International School.

"The school has installed 100 air purifiers to ensure good air quality for students and minimise the adverse effects of air pollution. Since pollution is a major health hazard, installing purifiers will go a long way in maintaining good air quality, ensuring physical well-being of students," said Rupa Chakravarty, Principal, Suncity School.

Doctors have welcomed the move.

“It's a justified step. Outdoor activities should be restricted, especially in the morning. Also, installing purifiers is required as there are many children who are prone to breathing problems. The authorities should take steps at war footing to deal with rising air pollution." Dr. Himanshu Garg, a senior pulmonologist at Artemis Hospital,” said.

In the past week, Air Quality Index in Gurgaon has been reported between 325-356 with PM 2.5 level rising to 229.61 micrograms per cubic metre, remaining in the category of 'Very Poor'.