In response to worsening air quality, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced on Thursday that all primary schools in the city will transition to online classes until further notice. This precautionary measure aims to safeguard young students as pollution levels in the capital reach hazardous levels.
The decision follows the implementation of Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), a protocol activated when air quality is classified as ‘severe’ (AQI 401-450). Under these restrictions, construction and demolition activities are halted, and specific petrol and diesel vehicles, including BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel light motor vehicles, are temporarily banned to curb pollution levels.
The air quality in Delhi has remained critical for consecutive days, with Wednesday marking the season’s highest AQI in the country. Environment Minister Gopal Rai cited stagnant weather conditions, such as calm winds and a drop in temperature, as factors worsening the situation. These conditions cause pollutants to linger in the air, creating a thick smog over the city. Rai expressed hope that anticipated wind shifts and temperature increases over the weekend may provide some relief by dispersing the trapped pollutants.
The Delhi government is taking these steps to protect residents, particularly young children, as it monitors the air quality situation. With primary school students switching to remote learning, authorities are focusing on minimizing exposure to harmful air while continuing efforts to improve air quality in the days ahead.
