The District Magistrate of Gautam Buddha Nagar has announced an extension of the school closure in Noida until November 25 due to poor air quality. This decision affects all schools from nursery to Grade 12 in the district. However, as per earlier instructions, online classes will continue as scheduled.
According to the official notice, the decision follows a significant Air Quality Index (AQI) breach in the Delhi-NCR region. The AQI has exceeded the Severe+ category, with levels surpassing 450, triggering the school closure.
The official notice is Here:-
Because of the instructions given by the District Magistrate, Gautam Buddha Nagar (Letter No. 4911-17 dated 18/11/2024), all physical classes for Pre-School to Class 12 are suspended due to the AQI breach, which has reached the SEVERE+ category. All schools are instructed to continue this measure until November 25, 2024.”
Why Were the Schools Closed?
The initial closure was set until November 23, but the AQI levels worsened over the weekend. By Sunday afternoon, the AQI had reached 441, and by 7 PM, it had climbed to a dangerous 457.
In response to the hazardous pollution levels, the Delhi-NCR authorities have implemented Stage IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). These measures include a ban on truck entry into Delhi, except for trucks carrying essential goods or providing critical services.
Key Points to Note:
- Noida schools closed until November 25 due to severe air pollution.
- Online classes will continue as per the earlier schedule.
- AQI levels in Delhi-NCR have exceeded the Severe+ category (450+).
- Stage IV restrictions are in place, including a truck entry ban in Delhi.