Delhi-NCR AQI: With Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-IV pollution curbs coming into effect on Saturday, the Delhi government has directed all government and private schools to conduct classes up to Class XI in hybrid mode (Physical and online classes). The government has also asked 50% of staff at government and private offices to work from home. The measure has been implemented in compliance with the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) order, aiming to protect public health by reducing exposure to worsening air quality.
50% employees to work from home
In an order issued as per the CAQM directive, the government stated, “Directions under section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, to all Government Offices under GNCTD and all Private Offices operating within the National Capital Territory of Delhi, to work on 50% strength and the rest to work from home under Graded Response Action Plan.”
Hybrid mode upto class XI
Similarly, the Delhi government’s Directorate of Education (DoE) issued a circular directing all government, government-aided, and recognised private schools under DOE, NDMC, MCD, and Delhi Cantonment Board to conduct classes in a hybrid mode for students up to Class IX and XI, combining physical and online lessons wherever feasible.
The DoE circular reads: “In compliance to the order (CAQM order of GRAP-IV), all Heads of Schools of Government, Government Aided, Unaided Recognized Private Schools of DOE, NDMC, MCD and Delhi Cantonment Board are directed to conduct classes in schools for children up to Class IX and XI in a “Hybrid” Mode i.e. both in physical and online mode (wherever online mode is feasible) with immediate effect until further orders.”
GRAP 4 in effect: What’s allowed and what’s not
Notably, the CAQM invoked Stage IV of the GRAP restrictions in Delhi-NCR after the air quality index (AQI) neared the ‘Severe plus’ mark of 450. According to the order released by CAQM, the AQI of Delhi, which was recorded at 431 at 4 pm, showed an increasing trend and rose to 446 at 6 pm due to slow wind speed, stable atmosphere, unfavourable weather parameters and meteorological conditions and lack of pollutant dispersion.
| Category | Not Allowed | Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicles & Traffic | – Trucks without essential goods/services – Non-Delhi registered LCVs (except EV/CNG/BS-VI diesel with essentials) – Older diesel heavy vehicles (BS-IV or below) | – Trucks carrying essential goods/services – Clean fuel vehicles (EV / CNG / BS-VI diesel) – Some personal vehicles (petrol/Electric), subject to compliance |
| Construction & Public Works | – All construction and demolition activities (roads, flyovers, pipelines, bridges) | – Essential repairs may be allowed only with local govt permission |
| Education | – Physical classes for younger students (may be shifted online) | – Online classes – Schools for older students if permitted |
| Workplaces & Offices | – Full office attendance may be restricted | – 50% work-from-home for public/private offices – Essential government services continue |
| Movement & Public Services | – Non-essential large gatherings may be discouraged | – Normal daily movement within the city – Emergency and essential service vehicles exempt |
Also Read: Grap-IV imposed in Delhi-NCR: Here’s the top 5 apps to check AQI level in your area
