New Delhi: Schools in the national capital will remain open on Monday, December 15, despite air quality deteriorating to severe levels, with the Air Quality
Index (AQI) touching 497. The Delhi government has not announced a complete closure of schools but has instead directed institutions to adopt a hybrid mode of instruction for students up to Class XI following the activation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV.
Under the directive, schools are required to offer both physical and online classes wherever feasible for students from nursery to Class XI. However, students of Class X and Class XII have been exempted from the hybrid system, with Class XII students specifically allowed to continue attending physical classes due to their upcoming board examinations. The decision has triggered criticism from students and parents, who argue that health concerns should not be compromised, especially amid hazardous pollution levels.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked all Stage IV measures on Sunday as pollution levels worsened across the capital. These include a complete ban on construction and demolition activities, restrictions on the entry of non-essential diesel trucks into Delhi, and mandatory work-from-home arrangements for 50% of government and private office staff.
Education officials said the hybrid learning model aims to reduce students’ exposure to polluted air while ensuring continuity of academic activities. Schools have been instructed to strictly comply with the order until further notice.
However, the exclusion of Class XII students from the hybrid mode has sparked discontent, with several students expressing concern that their health is being overlooked in favour of examination schedules. Some students questioned why academic pressure was being prioritised when air quality had reached life-threatening levels.
As of Sunday evening, the Delhi government has not issued any notification regarding a full shutdown of schools. Authorities said the situation is being closely monitored and further decisions will be taken based on air quality trends.
Residents have been advised to limit outdoor activity, wear protective masks, and follow health advisories as pollution continues to pose serious risks across the capital.
