New Delhi: As air quality in the Delhi-NCR region deteriorates, schools are adapting to new educational protocols. Following the reimplementation of anti-pollution measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) 4, schools in the area are set to commence hybrid classes. This decision comes as the Air Quality Index (AQI) reached alarming levels, prompting immediate action from local authorities.New Class Timings and Hybrid Learning ImplementationIn a recent order, the Gautam Buddh Nagar administration mandated that all schools in the district begin classes at 9 AM starting Tuesday. This adjustment is primarily due to cold weather conditions affecting students&#39 health and safety. District Inspector of Schools, Dharmveer Singh, emphasized the need for compliance with this directive, stating, “In view of the extreme cold, as per the instructions given by the District Magistrate, Gautam Buddh Nagar, classes in all schools will start from 9 am till further orders.”Under GRAP 4 restrictions, hybrid learning—which combines both online and offline teaching methods—will be compulsory for students in Classes VI to IX and XI across Delhi and neighboring districts such as Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddh Nagar. Students and their guardians will have the option to choose an online mode where feasible. Other districts in the National Capital Region (NCR) are also encouraged to implement hybrid learning strategies as part of the pollution control measures.Air Quality Concerns Prompt Urgent MeasuresThe decision to shift to hybrid classes is a direct response to the alarming AQI levels observed recently. Reports indicated that on Monday night, the AQI surged past 400, with readings of 399 at 9 PM and 401 at 10 PM. Such high levels of pollution pose serious health risks, particularly for children and vulnerable populations. The implementation of GRAP 4 aims to mitigate these risks by reducing vehicular emissions and promoting alternative modes of education.In addition to school adjustments, state government offices have been instructed to modify their operating hours. Offices in Noida, Greater Noida, and Yamuna Expressway will now function from 9 AM to 6 PM, while public offices across NCR are directed to operate at a reduced capacity of 50%, with many employees working from home.
