Delhi Government Suspends In-Person Classes for All Except Class 10 and Class 12 Amid Pollution Crisis

Classes in Delhi will be suspended for all students except those in classes 10 and 12, as announced by the Delhi government. This decision comes amid severe pollution levels affecting the city for five consecutive days. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented stricter pollution control measures under Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), effective from Monday at 8 am.

The Directorate of Education has instructed all government and private school heads to halt offline classes for students up to class 9 and class 11 until further notice. "All the Heads of government, government aided and unaided private recognised schools of DoE, MCD, NDMC and DCB in Delhi are hereby directed to ensure that the physical classes for all students upto sic class nine and class eleven is sic to be discontinued from November 18 until further orders," stated a circular from the DoE.

Pollution Control Measures

Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) deteriorated on Sunday, reaching 441 at 4 pm and escalating to 457 by 7 pm due to adverse weather conditions. In response, GRAP-4 measures have been enforced, leading to the suspension of physical classes for most students. Chief Minister Atishi confirmed on X that online classes would continue until further instructions.

According to the government's directive, trucks will not be permitted entry into Delhi unless they carry essential goods or use clean fuel like LNG/CNG/BS-VI diesel/electric. Additionally, non-essential light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi are banned unless they are electric or run on CNG or BS-VI diesel.

Transport Restrictions

Delhi-registered BS-IV or older diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles are prohibited, except those involved in essential services. These measures aim to curb pollution levels and improve air quality in the region.

The continuation of in-person classes for students in classes 10 and 12 is crucial as these students prepare for board examinations. The government has prioritised their education while addressing environmental concerns.

The situation remains critical as authorities strive to balance educational needs with public health and safety. The implementation of GRAP-4 highlights the urgency of addressing pollution issues in Delhi-NCR.