Delhi NCR School Closures: Primary Classes Shift Online as Pollution Peaks

Authorities in Delhi and the National Capital Region have ordered immediate changes to school schedules. This decision was made on Sunday, December 14th. It is a direct response to hazardous air pollution levels.

The measures follow an official directive from the Commission for Air Quality Management. According to Reuters, the Graded Response Action Plan’s Stage IV has been activated. This mandates strict pollution control steps across the region.

Hybrid Learning Implemented for Older Students

All schools in Delhi must move classes for students up to fifth grade online. For students in classes 6 to 9 and class 11, a hybrid model is now in effect. This combines both online and in-person teaching where possible.

The order applies to government, aided, and private schools. It covers institutions under the Delhi Directorate of Education, NDMC, MCD, and the Cantonment Board. No official reopening date for full in-person learning has been announced yet.

Noida and Ghaziabad Follow Suit with Strict Measures

Neighboring districts have adopted similar protocols. The administrations of Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar issued matching orders. Primary classes up to Grade 5 will be held entirely online.

For higher grades except 10 and 12, a hybrid system is recommended. Classes 10 and 12 will continue with physical attendance. This exception is likely due to crucial board examinations approaching.

The air quality situation remains severe. On Saturday, Noida recorded an AQI of 455, the worst in the country. Many areas in Delhi consistently reported readings above 400, deep in the ‘severe’ category.

In a related move, all outdoor sports activities are now suspended. The CAQM has directed state governments to enforce this ban strictly. The goal is to protect children from serious health risks during the pollution peak.

The widespread Delhi NCR school closures underscore the severe public health challenge posed by the ongoing air quality crisis. Officials are prioritizing child safety as pollution levels remain dangerously high.

Info at your fingertips

Are all schools in Delhi closed on Monday?

Not entirely closed. Physical classes are suspended for primary grades (up to Class 5). Older students, except Grades 10 and 12, have hybrid online and offline options. Each school will communicate its specific schedule.

What about schools in Noida and Gurgaon?

Noida and Ghaziabad have issued identical orders for online primary classes. Gurgaon’s authorities are monitoring the situation but had not issued a blanket closure order as of Sunday evening, according to local reports.

How bad is the air quality right now?

It is in the ‘severe’ to ‘severe+’ category. On Saturday, multiple stations in Delhi reported an AQI above 450. Noida recorded a reading of 455, which is considered hazardous for all residents.

Why are Classes 10 and 12 still physical?

These are crucial board examination years. Authorities likely made an exception to minimize academic disruption for students preparing for their final exams, which carry significant weight for university admissions.

Are any other activities banned?

Yes. All outdoor sports and physical education activities in schools across Delhi-NCR have been suspended by order of the air quality commission. This is a precaution to protect children’s health.

When will schools reopen normally?

There is no fixed date. The orders state the measures will continue “until further notice.” Decisions will depend on improvements in air quality metrics and subsequent directives from the pollution control authorities.