Delhi, Noida Schools Shift Online Amid Severe+ Air Pollution & Implementation of GRAP IV

Delhi NCR schools go hybrid! This decision follows the implementation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) 4 measures and a significant rise in the city's air pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing the 400 mark and entering the 'Severe+' category.

Delhi Air Pollution: In response to the deteriorating air quality and extreme cold weather conditions, schools in Delhi and Noida will operate in hybrid mode, combining both online and in-person classes. This decision follows the implementation of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) 4 measures and a significant rise in the city's air pollution, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing the 400 mark and entering the 'Severe+' category.

Schools in Delhi to Implement Hybrid Mode for Classes Up to V

The Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) has mandated that all schools, including government, government-aided, and private schools under the DoE, NDMC, MCD, and Delhi Cantonment Board, conduct hybrid classes for students up to Class V. This directive, issued on Monday, is in effect immediately and aims to ensure the safety and well-being of students while minimizing exposure to hazardous air pollution.

In response to the escalating AQI levels, the Delhi government had already moved schools for Classes VI to IX and XI to hybrid mode earlier this month. Initially, all schools in Delhi transitioned to hybrid classes on November 25. In-person classes for senior students resumed on December 5, but the ongoing air quality crisis has now prompted further measures for younger students.

Hybrid Mode: A Temporary Solution to Air Pollution Crisis

With the AQI exceeding 400, the ‘Severe+’ category poses significant health risks, particularly to children. The hybrid model, which combines virtual lessons with physical attendance, is seen as an effective way to reduce exposure to outdoor pollution while ensuring continuity in education. This approach is likely to be extended if air quality conditions do not improve.

The hybrid mode has become a crucial tool in dealing with this prolonged air pollution crisis, which typically worsens during the winter months due to climatic conditions that trap pollutants in the atmosphere.

Noida Schools Adjust Timings Due to Cold Weather

Meanwhile, in Noida, the Gautam Buddh Nagar administration has also taken measures to address the impact of cold weather on students' health and well-being. Schools in the district will begin classes at 9 am starting Tuesday. This decision aims to safeguard students from the biting cold while adjusting to the overall challenging environmental conditions.

The District Inspector of Schools (DIOS), Dr. Dharmveer Singh, issued the directive, which will remain in effect until further notice. School principals have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with the new timings, helping students manage both the cold weather and the ongoing pollution crisis.

Impact of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) 4 on Schools

As part of the GRAP 4 restrictions, which were imposed following the surge in Delhi's air pollution, schools for younger children in both Delhi and Noida are required to adapt to hybrid learning. This move is in line with the broader measures under GRAP, which also include the suspension of construction activities, restriction on truck traffic, and limiting public gatherings to curb air pollution.

The hybrid mode is expected to reduce the number of students commuting to school, thus limiting their exposure to harmful outdoor air quality. The shift also allows parents and students to opt for online learning in the comfort and safety of their homes, should the air quality worsen further.

The Path Forward for Schools in Delhi and Noida

As the cold weather continues and Delhi’s AQI remains in the 'Severe+' category, hybrid learning is likely to become a regular feature in many schools across the national capital region (NCR). With rising concerns about the health impact of prolonged exposure to poor air quality, more schools may adopt similar measures in the coming weeks.

Education authorities have emphasized that the health and safety of students remain the priority, and they will continue to monitor the air quality and weather conditions closely. Parents are advised to keep updated on the latest announcements from the school administration and local authorities regarding school timings and the mode of classes.

In the meantime, both Delhi and Noida residents are urged to follow safety guidelines issued by health authorities, including limiting outdoor activities, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

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