Delhi schools return to hybrid mode for classes up to class 5 amid worsening air quality

Delhi schools return to hybrid mode for classes up to 5th Class amid worsening air quality

In response to rising pollution levels and the implementation of Stage III measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), the Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) has directed all schools to resume hybrid learning for students up to Class V. The directive, issued on Monday, applies to government, government-aided, unaided private schools, and those under NDMC, MCD, and the Delhi Cantonment Board.

The circular emphasized that schools must ensure classes are conducted in hybrid mode, allowing online education wherever feasible, effective immediately and until further notice.

The decision comes as Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) deteriorated sharply to 379 on Monday, placing it in the “very poor” category. This is a significant jump from Sunday’s reading of 294, which fell in the “poor” category.

Under Stage III of GRAP, additional restrictions have also been imposed, including a ban on petrol vehicles that do not comply with BS-III emission norms and diesel vehicles below BS-IV standards from entering the city.

Earlier, schools in Delhi had shifted to hybrid learning on November 25 when pollution levels soared, before resuming in-person classes on December 5. The current measures aim to mitigate the health risks posed to young children, who are particularly vulnerable to high pollution levels.

Environmental agencies predict that the air quality could remain in the "very poor" zone over the next few days, further emphasizing the need for caution.