Tue Nov 19 12:20:00 UTC 2024: **Delhi Schools Go Online as Severe Air Pollution Triggers Emergency Measures**

NEW DELHI – Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced Sunday that all schools in the city, except for those in classes 10 and 12, will switch to online learning due to dangerously high levels of air pollution. This decision follows the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)’s implementation of Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), triggered by Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 457 on Sunday evening.

The CAQM’s decision came after an emergency meeting, prompted by worsening air quality due to unfavorable weather conditions. The Stage-IV GRAP, effective from Monday morning, introduces stringent measures to curb pollution, including:

* **Traffic Restrictions:** A ban on most trucks entering Delhi (except those carrying essential goods), and restrictions on non-essential light and heavy goods vehicles.
* **Construction Halt:** A ban on construction and demolition activities, extending to linear public projects.
* **Work From Home:** Recommendations for 50% work-from-home capacity for public and private offices, with the central government also urged to implement similar measures. Further closures of colleges and non-essential businesses are under consideration.

The Chief Minister’s office stressed the importance of these measures to protect public health, particularly children and vulnerable populations. The public is urged to limit outdoor activities and follow the CAQM’s guidelines. The online learning measure will remain in effect until further notice.

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