Delhi Schools Closed due to Pollution; Haryana Schools Declare Holidays

Delhi Schools closed due to pollution: A drop in air quality in North India has led to schools being closed overall and some areas switching to online classes. Delhi, Haryana and Maharashtra have taken immediate measures, while Punjab and Uttar Pradesh are keeping a close watch on the situation.

Here is a summary of the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels in the affected states and the steps being taken to protect students.

Severe AQI levels in North India:

Delhi’s air quality has reached dangerous levels, with AQI readings crossing 450-500 at several locations such as Anand Vihar (487), Chandni Chowk (444) and Dwarka (499). These “severe” levels indicate serious health risks for all residents, with vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and people with respiratory illnesses being particularly at risk.

Haryana’s AQI is equally worrying, with a reading around 320, which is classified as “severe” to “very poor”. Air quality levels are very high in places like Gurgaon and Faridabad, prompting the state government to take immediate action to protect public health.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Punjab measured 207, which puts it in the “unhealthy” category. While it is less severe than Delhi and Haryana, the state is still grappling with the health consequences associated with prolonged exposure to poor air quality.

Cities like Noida and Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh, which are part of the Delhi-NCR province, are also at “severe” AQI levels, with readings around 352-408. While no school closures have been announced in these areas, discussions are underway about possible measures. Schools across the province have declared holidays, switching to online learning.

In view of the extremely poor air quality, the district and state administrations in the northern region have announced the closure of schools and starting online classes. Here is the state-wise summary-

Delhi schools are switching to online classes.

In response to the dangerous levels of AQI, the Delhi government has closed all schools for physical classes. Nevertheless, class 10 and 12 students preparing for board exams are allowed to continue offline classes. All other grades have been moved to online learning until further notice.

Announcing the decision on Twitter, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi said that online classes are necessary to protect the health of students. Moreover, dense fog has reduced visibility in the city to 200 metres and has also posed challenges for commuters and public transport.

Uttar Pradesh: Awaiting confirmation of closures

In the state of Uttar Pradesh, urban areas such as Ghaziabad, Noida and Meerut, which are located in the severely polluted Delhi-NCR region, have air quality index (AQI) readings classified as “severe”. Still, no official notification has been given yet regarding school closures or online classes. Parents and students are waiting for updates as discussions continue between the administration

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