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University of Delhi announced on Monday that all physical classes will be suspended, with online classes commencing immediately due to the escalating air pollution in Delhi-NCR.
NEW DELHI: The University of Delhi announced on Monday that all physical classes will be suspended, with online classes commencing immediately due to the escalating air pollution in Delhi-NCR. The move is in response to the severe deterioration of air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching hazardous levels. Classes will remain online until Saturday, November 23, 2024, the university confirmed.
Adding to the disruption, the Delhi government initially exempted students of classes 10 and 12 from the suspension of in-person classes. However, the Supreme Court intervened, ordering a complete halt to physical classes for these grades as well, citing the alarming rise in pollution. The directive followed the activation of Stage 4 measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), as instructed by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) from 8 a.m. on Monday.
The Directorate of Education further instructed schools to keep classes for students up to grades 9 and 11 entirely online until further notice.
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Delhi’s AQI hit a staggering 494 on Monday, marking the second-worst reading in six years, leaving residents grappling with itchy eyes, sore throats, and breathing difficulties. Doctors have expressed grave concerns, highlighting the widespread health risks posed by the toxic air, which threatens not just vulnerable groups but also otherwise healthy individuals.
The Supreme Court criticized authorities in Delhi-NCR for their delayed response to the crisis and emphasized that restrictions under Stage 4 of GRAP will remain in place even if the AQI marginally improves below 450. The court’s sharp rebuke underscores the urgency of addressing the public health emergency engulfing the region.
