School closure due to pollution: Delhi schools suspend offline classes, Haryana schools announce holidays; check list of affected states

School Closed Due to Pollution: The deteriorating air quality in northern India has led to widespread school closures and a shift to online classes in some regions. Delhi, Haryana, and Maharashtra have implemented immediate measures, while Punjab and Uttar Pradesh are closely monitoring the situation. Here's an overview of the air quality index (AQI) levels in affected states and the measures being taken to safeguard students.
Severe AQI levels in northern India
Delhi's air quality has reached a hazardous level, with AQI readings surpassing 450-500 in several areas such as Anand Vihar (487), Chandni Chowk (444), and Dwarka (499). These "severe" levels indicate serious health risks for all residents, with vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions being particularly at risk.
The Delhi government has enforced GRAP IV (Graded Response Action Plan), initiating stringent curbs, including restrictions on vehicle movement and construction activities.
Haryana’s AQI is equally concerning, with readings around 320, categorised as "very poor" to "severe." Regions such as Gurgaon and Faridabad are experiencing critical air quality levels, prompting the state government to act swiftly to protect public health.
Punjab’s AQI, recorded at 207, falls into the "unhealthy" category. Though less severe than Delhi and Haryana, the state is still grappling with the health implications of prolonged exposure to poor air quality.
Cities like Ghaziabad and Noida in Uttar Pradesh, part of the Delhi-NCR region, are also under "severe" AQI levels, with readings around 352-408. While no school closures have been announced in these areas, discussions are ongoing about potential measures.

In light of the severe air quality levels, district and state administrations in the northern region have announced school closures and shift to online classes. Here’s a state-wise overview-
Delhi schools move to online classes
In response to the alarming AQI levels, the Delhi government has closed all schools for physical classes. However, students of Classes 10 and 12, who are preparing for board exams, are allowed to continue offline classes. All other grades have been shifted to online learning until further notice.
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced the decision on X (formerly Twitter), stating that online classes are necessary to safeguard students’ health. Additionally, visibility in the city has dropped to 200 meters due to dense fog, compounding the challenges for commuters and public transport.
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Haryana announces holidays for primary schools
The Haryana government has declared holidays for students up to Class 5 in both government and private schools. The Directorate of School Education issued directives allowing Deputy Commissioners to extend the holiday or shift to online classes depending on local air quality conditions. This measure applies to regions like Gurgaon and Faridabad, which are seeing severe AQI levels similar to Delhi.
Punjab government contemplates school closures
Although no official orders have been issued yet, the Punjab government is closely monitoring the situation. With AQI levels in the "unhealthy" category, authorities are considering temporary school closures to prevent prolonged exposure of students to polluted air.
Uttar Pradesh: Awaiting confirmation on closures
In Uttar Pradesh, cities like Ghaziabad, Noida, and Meerut, part of the heavily polluted Delhi-NCR belt, are seeing AQI levels in the "severe" category. However, no official announcements regarding school closures or online classes have been made yet. Parents and students await updates as discussions among authorities continue.