As Delhi chokes, GRAP Stage 3 brings ban on diesel vehicles & construction

Online learning in schools up to Class 5 in view of rising pollution

- SURUCHI KUMARI

For the second consecutive day, Delhi's air quality remained in the "severe" category, prompting authorities to impose stricter restrictions under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The measures, which include a ban on construction activities and restrictions on older vehicles, will take effect from 8 am on Friday.

The Delhi government has also announced the suspension of physical classes for primary schools until further notice. However, online classes will continue. "Due to rising pollution levels, all primary schools in Delhi will be shifting to online classes, until further directions," Chief Minister Atishi, who also holds the education portfolio, said in a post on X.

The Directorate of Education (DoE) has asked the heads of all government, private, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) schools to discontinue offline classes for children up to Class 5.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) directed Delhi and its neighbouring NCR states to impose strict restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles. Violators will face a fine of Rs 20,000.

Additionally, all interstate buses entering Delhi, except those running on electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel, will be barred.