School Closed Today: Residents of Delhi-NCR woke up to a dense, smoggy blanket for the third consecutive day on Monday, with air quality levels stuck in the ‘Severe’ category. Authorities have implemented the most stringent pollution control measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) due to the ongoing haze, which has significantly limited visibility.
Understanding the GRAP-IV Shutdown
To combat the dangerous air pollution, the Commission for Air Quality Management has implemented GRAP-IV restrictions across the National Capital Region. But what does GRAP-IV actually entail? It represents a full-scale emergency response. All construction and demolition work has been ordered to stop. Many industrial units, particularly those using polluting fuels, have been shut down. There are also significant limitations on the mobility of vehicles, such as the prohibition on the usage of some older vehicle types within the city and the admission of the majority of diesel trucks.
The Direct Impact on Offices and Schools
A key directive under GRAP-IV affects daily commuters and office-goers. All government and private offices in the NCR have been directed to operate at 50% capacity. Furthermore, there is a push to encourage work-from-home for the other half of staff. This move aims to significantly reduce the number of vehicles on the road, a major contributor to the current pollution crisis. The attempt to reduce emissions at the source also includes limits on trucks and non-essential diesel cars.
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School Closed Across NCR Today
Contrary to expectations of a full shutdown, schools have not been completely closed. Instead, a graded approach has been adopted for student safety. In Delhi, physical classes for students from Nursery to Class 5 have been suspended, with these grades moving entirely to online mode. For students of classes 6 to 9 and Class 11, schools must offer a hybrid model—mixing both online and offline classes—with the choice given to parents. Classes for 10 and 12 continue physically as usual for now.
The situation is similar in neighboring areas. In Noida and Greater Noida, pre-primary to Class 5 will shift online, while hybrid mode is advised for classes 6 to 9 and 11. Ghaziabad has issued an identical order, following the same structure to minimize children’s exposure to toxic air while attempting to continue education.
Suspended Activities and Health Advisories
Beyond classroom adjustments, all outdoor activities for students have been put on hold. This includes sports, morning assemblies, and any physical education periods that take place outside. Health advisories strongly recommend that children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues avoid outdoor exposure entirely. The general public is advised to wear N95 masks when venturing out and to avoid prolonged outdoor exertion.
Immediate FAQs Answered
Q: Are schools fully closed on Tuesday, 16th December?
A: No, schools are not fully closed. Physical classes are suspended only for lower grades (Nursery-Class 5 in Delhi-NCR). Higher grades have hybrid or physical options.
Q: What is a hybrid mode of classes?
A: Hybrid mode means schools will simultaneously offer both in-person and online classes. Parents of students in the applicable grades can choose the online option without penalty.
Q: Can I drive my diesel car today?
A: BS-IV diesel cars and BS-III petrol cars are banned from operating in Delhi-NCR under GRAP-IV rules. Please check your vehicle’s compliance.
Q: Why are only some grades moving online?
A: Health concerns and academic continuity are being balanced by authorities, especially for board courses (10 & 12). Younger kids are thought to be more susceptible.
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