Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: In response to escalating air pollution levels, schools across Delhi have mandated the use of N95 masks for students attending offline classes while primary schools have switched to online learning. The measures come as the capital’s Air Quality Index (AQI) remains in the “severe” category for two consecutive days, with a reading of 411 recorded on Friday morning.
N95 Masks and Restricted Outdoor Activities
Sudha Acharya, Principal of ITL Public School in Dwarka, announced strict guidelines for students, including mandatory N95 masks and restricted outdoor activities. The school has shifted its focus to indoor activities such as reading, crafting, and indoor games like chess and carrom.
“We are taking extra care of students with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma and maintaining a safe indoor environment by avoiding common allergens and chemical irritants,” said Acharya.
Switch to Online Classes for Primary Students
Chief Minister Atishi earlier announced that schools up to Class 5 would shift to online learning. The Directorate of Education (DoE) has instructed all government, private, and municipal schools to suspend offline classes for younger students until further notice.
Rajiv Hassija, Principal of Indraprastha International School, stated that teachers will conduct lessons using digital tools such as Microsoft Teams. “We’re also providing recorded sessions for students who may miss classes. To maintain a classroom-like atmosphere, students are required to wear uniforms during online sessions,” Hassija added.
Measures for Older Students Attending Classes Offline
For students in Class 6 and above, schools have suspended all outdoor activities, particularly those scheduled before 10 am. Hassija noted that the school consults with parents who are medical professionals to introduce healthy dietary suggestions and promotes home remedies such as steam inhalation to counter the effects of pollution.
GRAP Stage III Measures and Continued Vigilance
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented GRAP Stage III measures to combat pollution, including restrictions on non-essential construction and demolition activities in Delhi-NCR.
Kuldeep Khatri, president of Shiksha Nyay Manch, confirmed that teachers in Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD)-run schools would continue to conduct online classes from school premises.
