Schools in Delhi-NCR have been directed to switch to hybrid learning for students up to Class 9 and Class 11, following a sharp dip in air quality and the ongoing cold wave.

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The Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) issued the directive after the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked measures under Stages III and IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to address the severe air pollution level, which applies to government, government-aided, private unaided schools, and those under NDMC, MCD, and the Delhi Cantonment Board. Schools have been asked to conduct both physical and online classes wherever feasible, with immediate effect until further notice.  

Noida schools shut 

In neighbouring Noida, all classes from nursery to Grade 8 have been suspended until January 17 due to the harsh weather and poor air quality. Students in Grades 9 and 11 will attend classes in hybrid mode, ensuring academic continuity amid the challenges.  

In a circular, the DoE stated, “All heads of government, government-aided, unaided private schools under DoE, NDMC, MCD, and the Delhi Cantonment Board are directed to conduct hybrid classes for students up to Class 9 and 11, wherever online learning is feasible, effective immediately until further notice.” 

Cold wave and fog aggravate polltuion levels

Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) soared from 275 on Tuesday to a staggering 396 by Wednesday evening, nearing the ‘severe’ category. The accumulation of pollutants due to calm winds, low temperatures, and foggy conditions has worsened the situation, with the AQI expected to breach the 400 mark, according to forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM).  

GRAP categorises air quality into four stages—Stage 1 (Poor, AQI 201-300), Stage 2 (Very Poor, AQI 301-400), Stage 3 (Severe, AQI 401-450), and Stage 4 (Severe Plus, AQI above 450). Stages III and IV have now been enforced, triggering stricter curbs to prevent further air quality deterioration.  

GRAP restriction back in NCR

As part of the GRAP directives, authorities have intensified efforts to curb pollution. Citizens have been urged to follow the GRAP Citizen Charter to reduce emissions. CAQM is monitoring the air quality scenario closely and will review the situation periodically for further decisions.  

Parents react

While the measures aim to protect children’s health, parents have expressed concerns over the disruption caused by hybrid classes. Many have urged authorities to expedite solutions to the recurring pollution crisis.  

With cold wave conditions persisting and air quality worsening, authorities across Delhi-NCR remain on high alert, taking every possible step to ensure public safety.