Delhi schools to hold online classes as GRAP 4 enforced from today

GRAP-4 restrictions: All classes except 10 and 12 to go online in Delhi schools

Updated on: Nov 18, 2024, 04:54:32 IST

By HT News Desk

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With GRAP-4 restrictions coming into effect from Monday, Delhi chief minister Atishi announced the suspension of physical classes for all students except those in Classes 10 and 12, with schools shifting to online mode until further notice.

Children walk to school wearing face masks to protect themselves from air pollution in Delhi. (Raj K Raj/HT File Photo)

The move comes as the air quality in Delhi-NCR worsened on Sunday, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to implement Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

On Sunday, Delhi's daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) rose to 441 by 4 PM, reaching 457 by 7pm, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

ALSO READ- GRAP-4 enforced in Delhi-NCR from Monday amid rising pollution. What's allowed, restricted?

"Keeping in view the prevailing trend of deteriorating air quality of NCR, and in an effort to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region, the Sub-Committee today has taken the call to invoke all actions as envisaged under Stage-IV of GRAP - 'Severe ' Air Quality (Delhi's AQI > 450), w.e.f. 08:00 AM of 18.11.2024 (tomorrow) in the entire NCR," the CAQM said in a statement.

The Stage-IV response outlines an 8-point action plan aimed at tackling the severe pollution crisis. Measures include a ban on non-essential trucks entering Delhi, with exemptions only for trucks carrying essential items or services.

State governments and Delhi’s administration have been advised to shift classes for students in Grades VI-IX and XI to online mode.

ALSO READ- Delhi AQI alert: Smog worsens; pollution continues to raise health concerns

Offices are also encouraged to limit attendance to 50 per cent, with the rest working from home, a measure that may also be applied to central government employees.

Additional recommendations from CAQM include closing colleges and non-essential businesses, and possibly implementing an odd-even vehicle policy to further reduce pollution levels.

Citizens are urged to cooperate fully, with vulnerable groups—such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions—advised to remain indoors as much as possible to minimise health risks.

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HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

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