Delhi Schools Shift to Hybrid Mode as GRAP-3 Restrictions Enforced Amid Severe Pollution
As air quality in Delhi worsens, the government has directed schools to transition to hybrid learning for students up to Class 5. This decision comes as the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached the ‘severe’ category. The move follows the activation of Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to address rising pollution levels across the National Capital Region (NCR).
According to the CAQM, Delhi’s AQI sharply increased from 362 on November 10 to 425 by the morning of November 11, largely due to stagnant weather conditions, calm winds, and inadequate air dispersion. In response, GRAP-3 restrictions have been implemented immediately to prevent further deterioration of air quality.
Under Stage III of GRAP, there is a complete ban on dust-generating construction and demolition activities, which include excavation, brickwork, road repairs, tile cutting, and painting. The movement of vehicles carrying construction materials on unpaved roads and the transportation of demolition waste have also been restricted.
Vehicle regulations under GRAP-3 prohibit BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel light motor vehicles in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar. The entry of diesel light commercial vehicles (LCVs) registered outside Delhi and below the BS-IV standard is also restricted. Only electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel inter-state buses are allowed to enter the city.
Furthermore, the Delhi and NCR governments have been advised to shift classes for younger students, up to Grade V, to online learning to reduce their exposure to toxic air. Other measures include intensifying mechanized road sweeping, suspending stone-crushing and mining operations, and enhancing public transport facilities.
These emergency steps aim to protect public health, especially for children and vulnerable groups, as the national capital experiences one of its most severe pollution phases of the season.
