Delhi Schools CLOSED on November 7; Check details here

Delhi government, headed by Atishi has announced the closure of all schools in the National Capital on November 7. Read further to know details 

Delhi Schools Closed! The Delhi government has declared a public holiday for November 7 to observe Chhath Puja for residents of the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. While the announcement provides some relief for the residents, many parents are hoping for a similar intervention for schools and colleges in light of the air pollution crisis.

As pollution levels in Delhi-NCR soar, parents and students are anxiously awaiting any announcements from the Delhi government, headed by Atishi, regarding potential 'pollution holidays' for schools and colleges. With the air quality deteriorating rapidly, several schools have already taken steps to safeguard students' health by canceling morning assemblies. However, the bigger question remains: will the Delhi government declare official holidays for educational institutions to protect students from the harmful effects of pollution?

Delhi Government’s Graded Action Plan (GRAP) 

To tackle the alarming pollution levels, the Delhi government has implemented a Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). According to the plan, when the Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses 450 or higher, the government activates GRAP 4, which includes the closure of schools and educational institutions, alongside measures like the odd-even vehicle registration system to curb pollution. With the AQI approaching hazardous levels, many are anticipating that the government will soon invoke this action plan, possibly leading to the closure of schools for several days.

What’s Next for Delhi Students? 

With the air quality in Delhi continuing to worsen, all eyes are on the Delhi government to see if 'pollution holidays' will be announced for schools and colleges. The health of students remains a top concern, and with schools in neighbouring areas already shifting to online modes of education, many are hopeful that the government will take swift action to safeguard students' well-being in the face of rising pollution levels.

Last Year’s Precedent: Online Classes and Pollution Holidays 

In 2023, the Delhi government had declared pollution holidays for primary school students when the air quality took a serious hit. For higher classes, students were advised to switch to online learning to minimize their exposure to the toxic air. This precedent has led many to speculate that similar measures may be implemented this year, especially for schools in areas with poor air quality.

In the neighbouring districts of Noida and Greater Noida, all schools up to Class 8 were directed to conduct online classes until November 8. The order, issued by Gautam Buddh Nagar’s District Inspector of Schools (DIOS), Dharmveer Singh, aimed to protect younger students from the health risks posed by the hazardous air quality. For higher secondary classes (9 to 12), the order recommended schools to maximize online learning wherever possible to ensure students’ education is not interrupted by the poor air quality.

As the situation unfolds, parents and educators are bracing for possible announcements that could change the course of the academic calendar, as they wait for clarity from the government on how it plans to address the environmental crisis impacting education in the capital.

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