NEW DELHI: As Delhi’s air quality begins to improve, schools across the city remain closed, with no updates provided on when they will reopen. The closure, which affects all grade levels, including Class X and Class XII, follows an order from the Delhi government’s Directorate of Education. The suspension of in-person classes was initially implemented due to hazardous air pollution and elevated Air Quality Index (AQI) levels, which posed a health risk to both students and staff. Previously, the Directorate had permitted physical classes for Class 10 and 12 students, taking into account the approaching board exams.
As the air quality in Delhi starts to show signs of improvement, schools across the city remain closed, and there has been no official announcement regarding when they will reopen. The indefinite closure affects all grade levels, from primary to senior secondary, including Class X and Class XII students. This decision comes after an order issued by the Delhi government’s Directorate of Education, which is responsible for overseeing the operations of schools in the capital.
The suspension of physical classes was initially enforced in response to a significant deterioration in air quality, particularly following a sharp increase in pollution levels. The hazardous air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching alarming levels, posed serious health risks to students, teachers, and other school staff. These measures were implemented to prevent respiratory issues and other health problems, which are exacerbated by the heavy smog that often blankets the city, especially during the winter months.
While the city’s air quality has shown some improvement in recent days, the schools remain closed as authorities continue to monitor the situation. The Directorate of Education has not yet issued any further updates or timelines on the reopening of schools, leaving parents and students in uncertainty. The decision to keep schools closed also reflects ongoing concerns about air pollution levels, which remain a pressing issue in Delhi. The schools have adopted online learning as an alternative during the suspension of physical classes, but this has posed challenges for students, especially those without reliable internet access or the necessary resources for online education.
Previously, the Directorate of Education had allowed physical classes for Class 10 and 12 students, in light of the impending board exams for these crucial years. The board exams are scheduled to take place in the coming months, and the Directorate had decided that in-person classes would help students better prepare for these exams. However, given the current air quality situation, this allowance for physical classes was revoked, and the safety of students and staff was prioritized.
The Delhi government continues to monitor the air quality closely, with hopes that conditions will improve enough to allow schools to reopen. Meanwhile, health experts are urging the government to take stronger measures to address the ongoing pollution crisis in the city, with many calling for more long-term solutions to prevent such severe air quality issues in the future. The situation has sparked ongoing debates about the balance between educational needs and public health concerns, as schools and students navigate these challenging circumstances.
