Delhi-NCR schools have adopted a hybrid mode of learning for students up to Class 5 due to severe air pollution and a sharp decline in air quality index (AQI) to the ‘Very Poor’ category. This shift comes as part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Phase 3 measures to mitigate the health risks posed by toxic air quality, especially for young children. The hybrid model combines in-person and online classes to reduce exposure while ensuring education continuity. Authorities have emphasized the need for increased vigilance, and parents are encouraged to monitor children’s health during this period. Additional steps include restrictions on construction activities, vehicular movement curbs, and enhanced pollution control enforcement across Delhi and surrounding NCR areas.

Delhi-NCR’s shift to hybrid learning for students up to Class 5 is a direct response to the deteriorating air quality, which has consistently remained in the ‘Very Poor’ and ‘Severe’ categories as per the Air Quality Index (AQI) measurements. This move aligns with the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Phase 3, a comprehensive pollution control strategy implemented by the Delhi government to combat hazardous pollution levels.

Key additional measures alongside hybrid learning include:

  • Suspension of construction activities to prevent dust and particulate matter from aggravating pollution.

  • Restrictions on diesel generator usage and brick kiln operations.

  • Stringent vehicular pollution checks and enforcement of odd-even vehicle rationing schemes in certain areas to reduce traffic emissions.

  • Increased monitoring and penalizing of industries violating pollution norms.

  • Public advisories urging residents, especially children, elderly, and those with respiratory issues, to stay indoors during peak pollution hours and use protective masks when outdoors.

The hybrid education mode aims to minimize students’ exposure to polluted air by reducing the need for daily travel and time spent outdoors while maintaining continuity in their learning. Schools are adapting curricula and schedules to balance classroom and online instruction effectively.

Parents are urged to keep a close watch on their children’s health, look out for symptoms like coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing, and consult medical professionals if needed. Awareness campaigns are being run to educate communities about pollution’s health impacts and preventive practices.

Overall, this integrated approach involving education modification, pollution control, and public health advisories seeks to address the severe air quality crisis in the Delhi-NCR region comprehensively.