Air pollution in Delhi-NCR has become a major concern for parents following the Diwali celebrations, with many worried about their children’s health as schools reopen after the festive break. The Commission
for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the region, prompting authorities to introduce hybrid classes for students up to Class 5 in Delhi.
However, there is currently no general government order directing all schools in Delhi-NCR to remain closed. The hybrid arrangement allows students to attend classes either in person or online, depending on their parents’ preference.
Schools Up To Class 5 To Offer Hybrid Classes
In view of the deteriorating air quality, the Delhi Directorate of Education has directed government and private schools up to Class 5 to provide classes in hybrid mode. Students can attend classes physically or join lessons online from home. School heads have been asked to inform parents about the available options and ensure that the instructions are followed.
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board’s Sameer app, Delhi’s overall AQI stood at 373 at 11:05 pm on November 8, placing it in the very poor category. Ghaziabad reported an AQI of 360, Noida 319, Faridabad 297 and Gurugram 280.
Several areas of Delhi recorded AQI levels above 400, indicating severe air pollution. These included Alipur, Bawana, Burari, Chandni Chowk, Mundka, Punjabi Bagh, Rohini and Vivek Vihar.
The situation remained concerning in the early hours of November 9. The AQI at ITO was recorded at 406 around 4:20 am, placing it in the severe category. Dense smog was also reported in areas such as Inderlok, affecting visibility.
Some parents have called for schools in Delhi-NCR to remain closed from November 10 to 15 because of the rising pollution levels. They have expressed concern about children’s exposure to polluted air while travelling to and from school.
Parents have also argued that last-minute decisions on school closures and online classes disrupt academic schedules and create difficulties for families. Some have suggested that authorities announce a planned pollution-related holiday or online-class calendar for November.
However, no general order announcing school closures across Delhi-NCR for November 10 to 15 has been issued so far. Parents are advised to follow notifications from their respective schools and local authorities for the latest updates.
What Do GRAP-2, GRAP-3 And GRAP-4 Mean For Schools?
GRAP restrictions are introduced in stages depending on the severity of air pollution. Under Stage 2, there is no automatic direction to close schools or shift classes online, although state governments and local administrations can take decisions according to the situation.
Under Stage 3, hybrid learning can be implemented for students up to Class 5. In Delhi, the current directive provides these students with the option of attending classes online or offline.
If Stage 4 is invoked, authorities may consider extending hybrid learning arrangements to students in higher classes as well. However, such a change requires a separate decision by the competent authorities. The implementation of GRAP-3 does not automatically mean that GRAP-4 restrictions are in force.
