New Delhi: The Air Quality Management Commission (CAQM) on Monday, in response to Supreme Court directions, allowed schools in Delhi-NCR to conduct classes in “hybrid mode”, mixing physical and online sessions wherever possible.
The decision has been taken amid hazardous air quality in the area due to persistent smog. “State governments in NCR shall ensure that all classes up to class 12 are conducted in ‘hybrid’ mode, both ‘physical’ and ‘online’, wherever online mode is feasible,” the CAQM order said. The right to online education will depend on the students and their parents.
This relaxation applies to Clauses 5 and 8 of Phase-IV and Clause 11 of Phase-III. hierarchical response action plan (Grape). The Supreme Court had earlier raised concerns about students’ access to online education, midday meals and air purification at home, and had urged the CAQM to address these challenges.
CAQM highlighted the particular impact of GRAP Phase-IV restrictions on Grade 10 and 12 students, who are required to be physically present for board exams and practical classes. “Students of classes 10th and 12th are most affected due to board examinations and practicals,” the panel said.
The hybrid model will be applicable to Delhi and NCR districts like Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar. State governments in other NCR regions may also impose similar measures.
Separately, the Supreme Court refused to relax other GRAP-4 restrictions, including the construction ban and truck entry ban, until sustained improvement in air quality is seen. The court criticized the authorities for failing to implement these measures, particularly targeting the Delhi government and the city police.
Air quality in Delhi has improved slightly, with the AQI level falling below 300 on Monday, although pollution remains in the “poor” category. Residents, especially children and the elderly, are advised to take precautions against harmful pollutants.
While schools have resumed online classes, no clear timeline has been provided for the complete reopening of physical classes.