As air pollution levels in Delhi reach alarming levels, schools are taking stringent measures to protect students from the hazardous effects of smog. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has imposed GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) Stage 3 measures as the national capital recorded the worst air quality index (AQI) in the country, with a reading of 411 in the “severe” category on Friday morning.
In response, Chief Minister Atishi announced on Thursday that all schools up to Class 5 would switch to online learning until further notice. The Directorate of Education (DoE) has instructed all government, private, and Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD)-run schools to suspend offline classes for younger students.
For students in Class 6 and above who continue attending offline classes, schools have implemented stringent protocols. Sudha Acharya, Principal of ITL Public School, Dwarka, emphasized measures to ensure student safety. “Outdoor activities are restricted, and indoor activities like reading, painting, and games such as chess and carrom are being encouraged,” she said. The school has also made the use of N95 masks mandatory, closed all doors and windows, and taken extra precautions for students with respiratory conditions like asthma.
Acharya highlighted efforts to maintain a safe indoor environment by avoiding allergens and irritants such as strong cleaning agents and fragrances. The school has also issued advisories promoting eco-friendly practices like carpooling, staying hydrated, and consuming antioxidant-rich diets.
At Indraprastha International School, Principal Rajiv Hassija shared that lessons would continue seamlessly through online platforms for younger students. Teachers are conducting classes from the campus using Microsoft Teams and smartboards, with recorded sessions available for students to revisit. “Students are asked to wear school uniforms during online classes, and there’s a 15-minute gap between sessions to allow hydration and movement,” he said. Outdoor activities, especially those scheduled before 10 a.m., have been suspended for senior students.
Hassija further added that the school is collaborating with parents, particularly those who are medical professionals, to offer health and diet suggestions. Families are also being advised to use home remedies such as steam inhalation to mitigate respiratory issues.
Kuldeep Khatri, president of Shiksha Nyay Manch, confirmed that online classes would also be conducted in MCD-run schools, but teachers would be required to be on campus to deliver the lessons.
The worsening pollution levels in Delhi have raised significant concerns about public health, particularly for children. Authorities and educational institutions are working together to mitigate the risks while ensuring that learning remains uninterrupted during this period of environmental crisis.
Sources By Agencies
