Delhi schools shift to online classes for Nursery to Class 5 as air pollution worsens

Delhi schools have shifted to online classes for Nursery to Class 5 students as air pollution levels in the capital continue to remain dangerously high, raising serious health concerns for young children.

The decision was announced by the Directorate of Education (DoE) after Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stayed in the “severe” to “hazardous” range for several days. Authorities said the move was necessary to reduce children’s exposure to toxic air during this critical period.

Government tightens rules as pollution worsens

Just a day earlier, schools had been allowed to operate in a hybrid mode, combining physical and online classes for certain grades. Under that arrangement, students could attend online classes voluntarily, depending on parental choice.

However, with pollution levels continuing to rise, the Delhi government revised its instructions. Schools have now been directed to suspend physical classes entirely for students from Nursery to Class 5 and conduct teaching only through online mode until further orders.

GRAP Stage 4 measures in force

The shift to online learning comes after authorities enforced Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which is implemented when air pollution reaches emergency levels. This stage includes strict curbs on construction activities, vehicle movement, and other pollution-causing sources.

Health experts have repeatedly warned that young children are particularly vulnerable to polluted air, which can trigger respiratory problems, eye irritation, and long-term health issues.

Schools told to inform parents immediately

According to the official circular, all government, government-aided, and recognised private schools must ensure smooth online teaching for students up to Class 5. School heads have been instructed to inform parents and guardians immediately about the change in the mode of classes.

District Deputy Directors of Education have also been asked to monitor implementation across their zones. Civic bodies such as the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), and the Delhi Cantonment Board have been directed to issue similar instructions to schools under their control.

What happens to higher classes?

Classes above Class 5 will continue as per the earlier guidelines issued on December 13. This means students in higher grades may still attend school under the hybrid system, depending on feasibility and school-level arrangements.

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Delhi-NCR remains under thick smog

A dense layer of smog continued to blanket Delhi and parts of the National Capital Region (NCR), reducing visibility and prompting repeated health advisories. Residents have been advised to avoid outdoor activities, especially during early morning and late evening hours.

Environmental experts say that unless wind conditions improve or sustained pollution-control measures show results, air quality is likely to remain poor in the coming days.

Final update

With schools shifting young students to online classes, parents are being urged to ensure children remain indoors and follow health precautions. Authorities said further decisions will be taken based on air quality trends and expert assessments.