Outcry over pollution in Delhi! Orders issued to keep schools closed from nursery to class 5th

New Delhi : The increasing air pollution in Delhi-NCR is now directly affecting the education of children. Due to the air quality continuously reaching critical levels in the capital and surrounding areas, the Education Department has had to take strict decisions. The deteriorating air has not only raised health concerns but also affected the regular functioning of schools.

Schools up to fifth class closed in Delhi
After air pollution reached critical levels in Delhi, the Education Department has issued an order to close all schools in physical mode for students from nursery to class five. This order will be applicable to all government, government aided and private schools. According to the Education Department, till further notice, these classes will be taught only through online medium.

Decision taken considering AQI
A senior official of the education department said that this decision has been taken keeping in mind the current air quality index. Considering the health of small children, it was necessary to prevent them from coming to school in a polluted environment. All school heads have been instructed to ensure proper arrangements for online classes for the students.

Higher classes will run in hybrid mode
The department has also clarified that studies will continue in hybrid mode for students from classes six to ninth and eleventh. This means that some students in these classes can come to school, while the rest can study through online medium. The purpose of this system is to maintain the balance of health of the students without disrupting the education.

Instructions to inform parents immediately
The Education Department has instructed all school heads to immediately inform the parents about this decision. Along with this, instructions have also been given to the District Sub-Education Officers to inspect the schools of their respective areas, so that the orders can be followed properly.

Similar steps in Ghaziabad and Noida also
Before Delhi, Ghaziabad and Noida administration had also issued orders to conduct education from nursery to fifth class completely in online mode in view of pollution. The examinations of these classes were also canceled in both these districts. At the same time, instructions have been given to conduct studies from classes six to ninth and eleventh in hybrid mode.

Children’s health priority
The education department and district administration say that the health of children is paramount. Keeping schools open in the current situation of pollution can be risky. Therefore, unless the air quality improves, this system is likely to continue.

keep an eye on the situation ahead
The administration has indicated that the situation is being constantly reviewed. As soon as the pollution levels improve, new instructions will be issued regarding schools. At present, efforts are being made to keep the education system running smoothly through online and hybrid mode.