In a significant development for students in Delhi, all government and private schools have been directed to resume physical classes immediately following the Supreme Court’s decision to relax restrictions from Stage 4 to Stage 2 under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The Directorate of Education (DoE) issued a circular on Thursday, revoking previous orders for online classes.
Supreme Court’s Directive
The Supreme Court allowed the relaxation after assessing Delhi’s improving air quality. The apex court instructed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to enforce stricter measures if the Air Quality Index (AQI) rises above critical levels of 350 or 400. The court emphasized its continued monitoring of GRAP’s implementation to address environmental concerns in the capital.
DoE Circular and Immediate Action
The DoE circular announced that all schools under its jurisdiction, including those managed by the NDMC, MCD, and the Delhi Cantonment Board, must resume normal physical classes. School heads were instructed to inform students, staff, and parents about the resumption of physical learning.
Improvement in Air Quality
Delhi’s air quality saw notable improvement on Thursday, with the AQI recorded at 161, categorized as ‘moderate.’ The AQI scale measures pollution levels, ranging from ‘good’ (0-50) to ‘severe’ (401-500).
Background: Temporary Shift to Online Classes
On November 17, all classes were moved online due to Delhi’s ‘severe plus’ AQI levels. Even students of Classes 10 and 12, initially allowed to attend physical classes, were shifted to online learning from November 18.
GRAP Restrictions and Relaxations
Under Stage 4 of GRAP, stringent restrictions were imposed, including:
- Barring entry of non-essential diesel vehicles into Delhi unless compliant with LNG, CNG, or BS-VI standards.
- Advising offices to operate at 50% capacity with work-from-home options for the remaining workforce.
The relaxation to Stage 2 under GRAP has eased some restrictions. However, the prohibition on using coal and firewood, including tandoors in hotels, restaurants, and open eateries, remains in effect.
Looking Ahead
With air quality improving and students returning to classrooms, the Supreme Court and CAQM continue to keep a close watch on AQI levels in the city, ensuring measures are promptly reinstated if pollution spikes.
Sources By Agencies
