Delhi Schools Closed, Construction Banned As Air Quality Remains 400

Delhi Schools Closed: With Delhi's air quality worsening to "severe" levels, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government has implemented strict Stage 3 GRAP restrictions across the capital.

According to these guidelines, all construction and demolition activities are prohibited, and in-person classes for students up to Class 5 are suspended. These stringent measures to control pollution in Delhi will take effect starting tomorrow, November 15.

With smog blanketing the National Capital Region (NCR) and air quality deteriorating, a potential temporary closure of schools is under consideration

A Delhi Education Department official stated, "Following the CAQM's GRAP activation, the Environment Ministry will notify education officials, after which a decision will be implemented. So far, we have received no orders." This statement emphasizes the protocol in place for making school-related decisions based on air quality assessments.

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva had earlier publicly urged the Delhi government to close all private and government schools up to Class 5. Expressing his concerns, Sachdeva remarked, "We requested yesterday that all schools be closed... Air pollution isn't a one-day issue, it's a long-term challenge. But the government isn't taking action... The Delhi government isn't addressing pollution seriously, leaving the public to face the consequences."

Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is activated when AQI reaches "severe" levels, recommending a shift to online classes for students up to Class 5. However, on November 13, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) opted not to enforce these measures, given forecasts of improving air quality.

The CAQM announced on X, "With stronger winds, pollutant levels and the AQI are expected to decline starting tomorrow, with AQI likely returning to the 'Very Poor' category by the following day." This offers a hopeful outlook, potentially avoiding immediate school closures.