Delhi’s air quality has once again dipped to alarming levels, forcing the government to implement stricter measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). With pollution reaching the ‘severe’ category in several parts of the city, the Directorate of Education (DoE) has announced that schools will hold classes for students up to Class 5 in hybrid mode from Wednesday (November 12).
As the thick layer of smog continues to blanket the national capital, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has fallen into the ‘very poor’ and ‘severe’ categories across multiple areas. The rising pollution has led to widespread respiratory discomfort, with citizens reporting irritation in their eyes, coughing, and breathing difficulties.
To curb further deterioration, authorities have implemented GRAP Stage III measures in Delhi-NCR. Under these restrictions, several emergency actions have been put into effect, including curbs on construction activities, vehicular movement, and industrial operations that rely on non-clean fuels.
Delhi Schools Closed Tomorrow: Will Delhi’s Schools Go Hybrid Tomorrow?
Following the air quality emergency, the Directorate of Education issued a notice to schools. It stated that classes up to Class 5 will now be held in hybrid mode — allowing parents to choose between online and offline options.
“All heads of government, aided and private schools are directed to hold classes for children up to Class 5 in hybrid mode with immediate effect until further orders,” the DoE notice said.
Classes for Students Up to Class 5 Shift Online as Air Quality Worsens
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta confirmed that the decision was made after careful consultations with various departments. “We are monitoring the situation closely. Measures such as dust control, garbage clearance, and traffic management are being implemented with full sincerity,” she said during a press briefing.
The state government has also directed schools and offices to promote work-from-home wherever possible, to reduce vehicular emissions. In addition, the authorities are increasing road cleaning through mechanised sweeping and water sprinkling to control dust levels.
Restrictions under GRAP Stage III include:
- Ban on non-essential construction and demolition activities, except for critical projects such as metro, healthcare, and defense infrastructure.
- Suspension of industries and brick kilns that are not using clean fuels.
- Prohibition of diesel generator sets for non-emergency purposes.
- Restriction on older vehicles — BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers — from operating in Delhi and NCR districts.
- Ban on open burning of waste or garbage.
- Mandatory work-from-home directives for some private and government offices.
What is GRAP?
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a framework that categorises air pollution into four stages:
- Stage I (Poor) — AQI 201–300
- Stage II (Very Poor) — AQI 301–400
- Stage III (Severe) — AQI 401–450
- Stage IV (Severe Plus) — AQI above 450
As Delhi enters the second week of November, air pollution once again poses a major public health challenge. The administration continues to monitor the situation while urging citizens to stay indoors, wear masks, and avoid outdoor activities whenever possible.
