Are Delhi schools closed on December 15? Govt takes BIG step, asks schools to operate on hybrid mode from…
The decision follows Phase IV of the authorities’ Gradual Response Action Plan (GRAP). It came after he tightened restrictions under phase 1, triggered by a sharp deterioration in air quality in the national capital.
The Directorate of Education (DoE) has instructed schools to immediately switch to hybrid classes for students from Class 1 to Class 9 and Class 11 to reduce children’s exposure to hazardous pollution while ensuring academic continuity. The directive is applicable to government, state-aided and unaided recognized private schools under DoE, NDMC, MCD and Delhi Cantonment Board. Schools have been instructed to offer a mix of online and physical classes wherever possible until further notice.
Schoold will work in hybrid mode
The decision follows Phase IV of the authorities’ Gradual Response Action Plan (GRAP). It came after he tightened restrictions under phase 1, triggered by a sharp deterioration in air quality in the national capital.
“All heads of government schools, government-aided and unaided recognized private schools under DoE, NDMC, MCD and Delhi Cantonment Board are directed to conduct classes in both physical and online ‘hybrid’ mode for children up to Class IX and XI, wherever online classes are possible, with immediate effect until further orders,” the Directorate of Education said in its official notification. he said.
Students and their parents will have the option to attend online classes wherever the option is available, the official notification added.
GRAP 4 measures implemented
The decision comes in the wake of an order issued by the Commission on Air Quality Management (CAQM), bringing into effect Phase IV actions under the Phased Response Action Plan (GRAP) with immediate effect to prevent further deterioration of air pollution levels across Delhi-NCR.
Earlier, CAQM had imposed Phase-III restrictions, including hybrid classes up to Class 5 and a ban on construction and demolition activities due to increased pollution levels due to adverse meteorological conditions.
Air Quality reached its worst level of the year
Delhi recorded its worst air quality of the year on Saturday, with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 431, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This surpasses the previous high of 428 recorded on November 11. The Air Quality Early Warning System predicted that the AQI would remain in the ‘severe’ category on Sunday, raising serious health concerns for residents.
Working from home rules for offices
Besides school restrictions, the Delhi government has ordered both government and private offices to operate with reduced physical attendance. All administrative secretaries and department heads have been instructed to come to the office regularly, but the physical attendance of the staff should not exceed 50 percent.
The remaining 50 percent of employees are required to work from home, but senior officials have the discretion to call staff into the office to ensure uninterrupted provision of essential and emergency services.
