Amid rapidly deteriorating air quality in Delhi-NCR, authorities have suspended physical classes in all schools across Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad. The decision comes after the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi surged to an alarming 441 by 4 PM on Sunday, further escalating to a critical 457 by 7 PM.To curb pollution, authorities have implemented Stage IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This includes a complete ban on the entry of trucks into Delhi, except for those carrying essential goods or providing critical services.Despite these measures, offline classes are expected to resume on November 25. Examination schedules and interviews, however, remain unaffected. Schools were initially ordered to shut down until November 23 due to hazardous air conditions.AQI hits severe levels across the cityResidents of the national capital woke up to dense smog and foggy weather over the weekend, with the AQI plunging into the Severe category. As of 8 AM on Saturday, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded an AQI of 420 in Delhi.Specific areas fared even worse, with Anand Vihar registering a dangerous AQI of 457, Ashok Vihar at 455, Chandni Chowk at 439, and RK Puram at 421, all in the Severe category.Transport delays due to poor visibilityThick smog also disrupted train schedules, causing significant delays. For instance, the Jansadharan Express was delayed by over 11 hours, while the Shaan-e-Bhopal Express was behind schedule by 39 minutes.Government takes actionOn November 22, Delhis Environment Minister Gopal Rai inspected the Narela-Singhu border to oversee GRAP Stage IV implementation. Measures included banning BS-IV diesel-operated medium and heavy goods vehicles, except those involved in essential services. Speaking to the media, Rai emphasised the governments commitment to tackling air pollution through stringent enforcement.
