Delhi Suspends Physical Classes for Students Up to Class IX and XI Amid Worsening Air Quality

New Delhi, November 18, 2024: In a move aimed at protecting the health of students amidst Delhi’s worsening air quality, the Delhi government has announced the suspension of physical classes for students up to class IX and XI. The decision comes into effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice.

The Decision:

The Directorate of Education (DoE) issued a circular on Sunday, November 17, 2024, directing all government, government-aided, and private schools in Delhi to discontinue physical classes for students up to class IX and XI. The circular emphasizes the need to prioritize the health and safety of students in the face of the severe air pollution that has engulfed the city.

Impact on Students:

The suspension of physical classes will primarily affect students in classes VI, VII, VIII, IX, and XI. These students will now transition to online learning until further notice. However, the government has clarified that physical classes for students in classes X and XII, who are preparing for their board exams, will continue as usual.

Reason Behind the Decision:

The decision to suspend physical classes was taken in response to the alarming deterioration of air quality in Delhi and the surrounding areas. The city has been grappling with severe smog and hazardous levels of pollutants for several days. The air quality index (AQI) has consistently remained in the “very poor” and “severe” categories, posing significant health risks to the population, especially children and the elderly.

Health Concerns:

Prolonged exposure to poor air quality can lead to a variety of respiratory and cardiovascular problems. Children, with their developing lungs, are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of air pollution. Studies have shown that exposure to polluted air can impair lung function, increase the risk of asthma, and exacerbate respiratory infections.

Government’s Response:

In addition to suspending physical classes, the Delhi government has implemented several measures to combat air pollution, including:

• GRAP-4: The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enforced the fourth stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which mandates stricter measures to curb pollution levels.
• Construction and Demolition Ban: The government has imposed a ban on construction and demolition activities in Delhi-NCR to reduce dust pollution.
• Work-from-Home Advisory: The government has advised private companies to allow their employees to work from home to reduce vehicular emissions.
• Public Transport Incentives: The government is promoting the use of public transportation to reduce the number of private vehicles on the roads.

Public Reaction:

While the decision to suspend physical classes has been welcomed by parents and health experts, it has also raised concerns about the impact on students’ education. Many parents are worried about the quality of online learning and the potential for learning loss. However, most agree that prioritizing the health of students is essential, especially in the face of such severe air pollution.

Also Read: UK Universities: Indian students numbers drop by 20%

Conclusion:

The suspension of physical classes in Delhi is a necessary step to protect the health of students during the ongoing air pollution crisis. While it may disrupt the regular academic calendar, it is a prudent decision that prioritizes the well-being of children. As the air quality situation continues to be monitored, the government may extend the suspension of physical classes or implement further measures to mitigate the impact of pollution.