Delhi shifts to hybrid classes up to grade 9 and 11 as air quality hits alarm bells

Following the implementation of stage IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan, the Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) ordered all schools to offer hybrid classes for children up to class 9 and class 11.

This directive was issued on Jan 15.

The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and the India Meteorological Department have forecast that the Air Quality Index (AQI) could soon surpass 400.

In light of this, the Delhi-NCR authorities have been directed by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to "straightway invoke" all actions under stages III and IV with immediate effect.

"All heads of government, government-aided, and unaided private schools under DoE, NDMC, MCD, and the Delhi Cantonment Board are directed to conduct hybrid classes for students up to Class 9 and 11, wherever online learning is feasible, effective immediately until further notice," reads the circular by the DoE.

Classes will still be held in schools for children in classes 10 and 12. All building operations and the entry of nonessential, polluting trucks into Delhi are prohibited as part of the stage IV limitations.

This decision was made in light of the rising Air Quality Index (AQI), which indicates that pollution levels could soon surpass the crucial 400 mark, requiring prompt action.

For more information, parents, guardians, and students are encouraged to keep in contact with the school administration.