Increasing air pollution in Delhi (PTI image)
NEW DELHI: The Delhi government on Monday directed schools to shift students up to Class V from hybrid to fully online mode in view of the capital’s worsening air pollution.According to a circular issued by the Directorate of Education (DoE), physical classes for students from nursery to Class V in all government, government-aided and unaided private recognised schools in Delhi have been discontinued until further orders due to the prevailing high Air Quality Index (AQI).The order applies to all government, government-aided and private recognised schools in Delhi. School heads have been instructed to ensure that online classes are available for younger students and to inform parents and guardians immediately.The circular clarified that classes for Class VI and above will continue without any change and will be conducted as per earlier instructions issued on December 13. District and zonal education officials have also been asked to ensure smooth implementation of the directions. Delhi remained shrouded in dense smog with the AQI touching 498, close to the maximum level of 500. The city’s air quality monitoring stations recorded ‘severe’ levels at 38 locations and ‘very poor’ at two stations, with Jahangirpuri recording the worst AQI of 498.Several residents complained of breathlessness, low visibility and health risks. Pollution levels have steadily worsened over the past two days, raising concerns especially for children and other vulnerable groups. The situation had worsened from Sunday when the AQI climbed to 461, marking Delhi’s most polluted day this winter and the second-worst December air quality day on record. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, an AQI between 0 and 50 is considered ‘good’, 51 to 100 ‘satisfactory’, 101 to 200 ‘moderate’, 201 to 300 ‘poor’, 301 to 400 ‘very poor’ and 401 to 500 ‘severe’.The Air Quality Early Warning System forecasts that Delhi’s air quality is likely to remain in the ‘severe’ category, with predictions for the next six days showing ‘very poor’ conditions.The current pollution levels pose serious health risks to the city’s population, with authorities advising people to take necessary precautions. The situation remains particularly concerning as the winter season typically sees increased pollution levels in the capital region.