Delhi Air Pollution: Schools mandate face masks, restrict outdoor activities for students

With primary schools across Delhi shifting to online learning due to escalating air pollution, authorities have implemented protective measures for students in Class 6 and above who continue to attend physical classes.

Sudha Acharya, Principal of ITL Public School in Dwarka, stated, “We have introduced guidelines for students attending offline classes. Outdoor activities have been restricted, and indoor activities such as reading, painting, crafting, and games like chess and carrom are encouraged.” Acharya issued an advisory emphasising eco-friendly practices like carpooling, staying hydrated, and consuming an antioxidant-rich diet.

She further noted, “We have mandated the use of N95 masks, keep all doors and windows closed, and take extra precautions for students with respiratory conditions like asthma.” The school also avoids common allergens and chemical irritants, such as fragrances and harsh cleaning agents, to ensure a safe indoor environment.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has enforced GRAP 3 measures as Delhi’s air quality continues to worsen, recording the highest pollution levels in the country. On Friday, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood in the “severe” category at 411 at 9 am, marking the second consecutive day of such levels.

In response, Chief Minister Atishi announced on Thursday that schools up to Class 5 would switch to online learning until further notice. The Directorate of Education (DoE) directed government, private, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC)-run schools to halt offline classes for these students.

Rajiv Hassija, Principal of Indraprastha International School in Dwarka, explained that teachers would continue to deliver lessons on campus using Microsoft Teams and smartboards to ensure effective online learning. “We will also provide recorded sessions so students can revisit lessons, and those unable to attend can catch up. Students are required to wear school uniforms during online classes, and a 15-minute gap between sessions allows them to walk around and stay hydrated,” he said.

He added that outdoor activities for secondary students, especially those scheduled before 10 am, have been suspended. “We maintain a green campus and consult parents who are doctors for healthy diet suggestions. Families are also encouraged to incorporate home remedies like steam inhalation,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Kuldeep Khatri, president of Shiksha Nyay Manch, stated that online classes would be conducted in MCD-run schools, with teachers required to be on campus to deliver the sessions.

(With inputs from PTI)