E-Paper
Are schools in Delhi closed tomorrow? GRAP 4 imposed amid toxic AQI, here's what rules say
GRAP 4 measures advises states to consider emergency measures like shifting of schools and colleges to online mode for students of classes up to XII.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Saturday imposed GRAP Stage IV restrictions in Delhi-NCR hours after strict curbs were imposed under GRAP III. The tightening of norms by the pollution agency comes as the air quality in the national capital breached 400-mark.
According to Central Pollution Control Board, the Air Quality Index as of 4 pm on December 13 was at 431 in the severe category.
The CAQM said that the Sub-Committee on GRAP has decided to invoke all actions under Stage-IV of GRAP.
Are schools closed in Delhi tomorrow?
The pollution agency on Saturday first announced GRAP III measures, later intensified the measures and imposed the Stage IV of GRAP. Under the fourth stage, stricter norms are imposed in addition to the restrictions under GRAP III
With GRAP IV measures in place, state government schools of Delhi and NCR may take a decision on discontinuing physical classes even for higher standars and conduct lessons in an online mode. Governments were advised to take a decision on discontinuing physical classes or ‘hybrid mode' in schools for children up to Class V and conducting classes in an online mode under GRAP Stage III already.
It also advises state governments in Delhi-NCR to consider additional emergency measures like closure of colleges, educational institutions and closure of non‑emergency commercial activities, along with other restrictions on discontinuing offices.
In simpler terms, GRAP IV mandates hybrid mode for Delhi and key NCR cities for Classes up to V and advises the same for Classes up to XII. The final call is on state governments.
An official notification on status of schools is awaited from the governments of NCR states.
