GRAP-3 Restrictions Enforced Due to Severe Air Pollution
NEW DELHI – The Delhi government has mandated a temporary shift to a hybrid learning model for students up to Class 5, effective immediately, due to a severe deterioration in the capital’s Air Quality Index (AQI). This decision is a direct response to the implementation of the pollution control measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-3), which is activated when air quality reaches the ‘Severe’ category.
The move aims to protect young students, who are particularly vulnerable to the harmful health effects of high levels of air pollution, especially fine particulate matter ($PM_{2.5}$).
The Details of the Hybrid Model
Under the hybrid model directive:
- Classes up to Class 5: Students in these early grades will attend classes online from their homes. This measure minimizes their exposure to the toxic outdoor air while maintaining the continuity of their education.
- Classes 6 and Above: Students in higher classes will generally continue with physical classes, although specific schools may have discretionary policies based on local air quality conditions and parental concerns.
This policy reflects an annual challenge faced by Delhi, where meteorological conditions combine with emission sources to create a hazardous smog blanket during the late autumn and early winter months. Educational continuity must be balanced with the paramount concern for public health.
The government and school administrators are closely monitoring the AQI forecasts and have indicated that a return to full physical attendance for all classes will be decided once the air quality improves and GRAP-3 restrictions are lifted.
