Delhi pollution: The fate of Half Marathon hangs in uncertainty
What's the story
The Indian Medical Association has urged the Delhi HC to postpone the Delhi Half Marathon in the wake of "severe" air quality.
The request came in a letter by the IMA to Acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and CM Kejriwal. It was based on a PIL initiated by the HC to address Delhi's pollution problems.
The Half Marathon is currently scheduled on November 19.
Pollution
Experts have predicted respite but normal air quality is far
Delhi has been struggling to breathe amid heavy smog for days. As of November 14, PM10 and PM2.5 levels have been at "emergency" levels since 48 hours.
Experts have predicted change in wind speed and direction will improve air quality to "very poor" today. Light showers are also expected.
However, it'll take a long time for air quality to return to normal.
Quote
The IMA's expert opinion
"The air quality is particularly poor in the early morning when pollution is extremely high. This is also the time when the proposed Half Marathon is scheduled to start. The hazardous pollution levels may have disastrous health consequences even for the healthy participants."
Reax
But what do the citizens want?
Delhi residents have mixed reactions to the planned event. There are some like 34-year-old Aman Dhall, who have been training hard for it since weeks, but is now reconsidering.
However, Ankush Mendiratta, founder of a Gurugram running group, says it is "an opportunity to achieve our personal best".
He and his group have taken to training indoors in recent days.
Do you know?
Can it be held if the main sponsor backs out?
Due to the dismal air quality, the Half Marathon has faced stiff opposition, including from title sponsor Airtel. The telco earlier hinted it may pull out of its decade-long association with the annual event unless concerns of air pollution are immediately addressed.
Govt
Delhi govt, police need to respond to IMA's letter
After receiving IMA's letter, the Delhi HC has now sought a response from the Arvind Kejriwal-led government, police and the Delhi Pollution Control Committee.
It has asked them to file their responses by November 16, when it will next hear the matter.
Meanwhile, a final call on whether the odd-even scheme will be implemented in Delhi is expected soon.