After Diwali, as Delhi’s air quality worsened, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal took swift action to protect the city’s children from the harmful effects of pollution. With the Air Quality Index (AQI) plunging into the “very poor” category, he announced the closure of primary schools for two days. This was followed by a decision to transition all classes up to Class V to online learning.
The move came as part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV, aimed at combating severe air pollution. Schools were also instructed to minimize outdoor activities and encourage mask-wearing for older students to safeguard their health. As respiratory issues among students became a growing concern, the government’s quick response was seen as a necessary step to protect young lungs from the hazardous air, while ensuring that education could continue in a safer, virtual environment.
