Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 428 by Saturday night, with Anand Vihar recording a ‘Severe’ reading of 480. Neighboring cities including Noida, Greater Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram also reported ‘very poor’ air quality, prompting the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to implement Stage IV measures.
Impact on Schools in Uttar Pradesh
Schools in Gautam Buddha Nagar, including Noida, Greater Noida, and Dadri, will operate from 10 am to 3 pm. This applies to all government and private schools, including CBSE, ICSE, IB, and UP Board institutions. Notices have been issued to parents informing that classes for all grades, from preschool to Class 12, may be conducted entirely online if conditions worsen.
Understanding GRAP
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a framework to mitigate rising air pollution in Delhi-NCR. Stage 4, the highest level, is triggered when AQI crosses 450, enforcing maximum restrictions, including suspension of in-person school classes and outdoor activities for vulnerable groups.
Authorities’ Advisory
As of now, official confirmation for school closures in Delhi is pending. Parents and students are advised to stay updated with notifications from their respective school authorities or district administrations.
Other Regional School Closures
Meanwhile, in Pune, schools and colleges will remain closed on January 19 due to the Pune Grand Tour 2026 cycling event, with traffic diversions and road closures affecting major routes in the city.