Schools in Delhi will conduct classes in a hybrid mode for students up to Class IX and Class XI from Monday, following the implementation of Stage-IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) due to severe air pollution levels, according to the Directorate of School Education, Delhi. In an official order, the Directorate said the decision has been taken in compliance with directions issued by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), which on December 13 invoked Stage-IV of GRAP after Delhi ’s Air Quality Index crossed the ‘Severe+’ threshold. Under the hybrid model, schools will be allowed to hold both physical and online classes, wherever online education is feasible. According to the Directorate of School Education, the option to attend classes online will rest with students and their parents or guardians. Schools have been instructed to implement the arrangement with immediate effect and continue it until further orders are issued. Story continues below this ad The directive applies to all government, government-aided and unaided recognised private schools under the Directorate of Education, as well as schools run by the NDMC, MCD and the Delhi Cantonment Board. School heads have been directed to inform parents and guardians about the change. The move follows CAQM’s order invoking all actions under Stage-IV of GRAP, which comes into force when the AQI exceeds 450. The commission stated that the measures were necessary to prevent further deterioration of air quality across Delhi and the National Capital Region. Under GRAP Stage-IV, authorities typically impose emergency restrictions including a ban on most construction and demolition activities, curbs on the entry of non-essential diesel trucks into Delhi, restrictions on certain categories of vehicles, and advisories for offices to reduce physical attendance through work-from-home or staggered timings. Outdoor activities are discouraged, especially for children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions. The shift to hybrid schooling is aimed at reducing students’ exposure to hazardous air while ensuring continuity of academic activities as pollution levels remain in the severe category.
Curated by Dr. Elena Rodriguez
