New Delhi | November 12, 2025: As air pollution in Delhi hits the “severe” category, the Delhi government has directed schools to conduct hybrid classes for students up to Class 5. The decision follows the activation of Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).
According to officials, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) climbed sharply from 362 on November 10 to 425 on November 11, mainly due to calm winds and poor weather conditions.
What Is GRAP-3?
The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a step-by-step system used to tackle Delhi-NCR’s pollution problem. Stage III, or GRAP-3, is triggered when AQI levels reach between 401 and 450, marking “severe” air quality.
When this stage is activated, several strict pollution-control measures come into effect across Delhi and nearby NCR regions.
Major Restrictions Under GRAP-3
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Complete Ban on Dust-Generating Activities
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Construction, demolition, excavation, and road repair work
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Masonry, plastering, painting, tile cutting, and waterproofing
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Loading and unloading of dust-producing materials
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Transportation of construction waste
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Vehicle Restrictions
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Ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar
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Ban on older diesel light commercial vehicles (LCVs) from outside Delhi
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Only electric, CNG, or BS-VI diesel buses allowed from NCR states
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Other Measures
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Closure of stone crushers and mining activities
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Increased mechanised road cleaning
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Strengthening of public transport services
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Authorities to shift primary school classes online if pollution worsens
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Impact on Schools
To protect young students, the Delhi government has directed all schools to conduct hybrid classes (online and offline) for students up to Class 5. Schools can decide how to divide students between physical and online sessions depending on local conditions.
Officials said the move is aimed at reducing children’s exposure to toxic air, especially during morning hours when pollution levels are highest.
Why GRAP-3 Measures Matter
Pollution levels in Delhi often rise sharply during winter due to stubble burning, vehicle emissions, and weather conditions that trap pollutants.
The GRAP system helps prevent further deterioration of air quality and ensures coordinated action between Delhi and NCR authorities. These steps aim to safeguard public health and reduce pollution-related illnesses.
