Mon Dec 15 14:50:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
Due to severely hazardous air quality in New Delhi, the Delhi government has ordered all schools to shift to online classes for students up to Class 5, effective Monday, December 15, 2025. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 427, classified as ‘severe,’ with some areas like Wazirpur experiencing even worse pollution levels. While younger students will learn remotely, older grades will continue with hybrid classes. The decision was made following a previous directive on December 13th to implement hybrid learning.
News Article:
Delhi Schools Move to Online Learning for Younger Students as Air Pollution Plummets
New Delhi – In response to alarmingly high levels of air pollution, the Delhi government has mandated that all schools switch to online classes for students from nursery to Class 5, effective today, December 15, 2025. A thick layer of smog continues to blanket the capital, prompting urgent action to protect the health of young children.
The decision, announced via a circular from the Directorate of Education, comes as Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) registered a “severe” rating of 427. On Sunday, the AQI reached 461, the second-highest December reading on record. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), several monitoring stations across the city are reporting “severe” air quality, with Wazirpur recording a staggering 475.
While the youngest students will transition to online learning, the education department has stated that classes for older students will proceed in a hybrid model, as outlined in a previous directive issued on December 13th.
“The health and well-being of our students are our top priority,” stated a government spokesperson. “We understand the inconvenience this may cause, but the severe air quality necessitates immediate action to protect our youngest learners.”
The CPCB classifies an AQI of 401-500 as “severe,” posing significant health risks.
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