Delhi Schools Shift to Hybrid Mode Amid Severe Air Pollution

In response to the severe air pollution and ongoing cold wave, the Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) has directed all schools to shift to a hybrid learning model for students up to Class 9 and Class 11. This decision comes as the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi has soared to alarming levels, nearing the ‘severe’ category2.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked measures under Stages III and IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to address the deteriorating air quality. As part of these measures, schools are required to conduct both physical and online classes wherever feasible, effective immediately until further notice2.

The DoE’s circular states, “All heads of government, government-aided, unaided private schools under DoE, NDMC, MCD, and the Delhi Cantonment Board are directed to conduct hybrid classes for students up to Class 9 and 11, wherever online learning is feasible, effective immediately until further notice.”

While Classes 10 and 12 will continue to be held in schools, non-essential construction activities and the entry of polluting trucks into Delhi have been banned. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and will review the measures periodically2.

Parents and students have expressed concerns over the disruption caused by the hybrid model, urging authorities to find long-term solutions to the recurring pollution crisis.