New Delhi: Government Announces Early Winter School Break Due to Severe Air Pollution

NEW DELHI: In response to the escalating air pollution crisis in the national capital, the Delhi government has taken the unprecedented step of declaring an early winter break for schools, extending from November 9 to November 18. Traditionally, the winter break in Delhi commences in December, but this rescheduling aims to shield students from the hazardous air quality that has gripped the city.

The Delhi education department formally communicated this decision, stating, "In view of air pollution, the winter break for all schools, which is usually from December, has been rescheduled, now to be from November 9-18." While acknowledging the gravity of the air quality situation, the government has maintained a cautious approach. All schools in Delhi have been instructed to cease physical classes temporarily, except for students in classes 10 and 12, who will continue their in-person education until November 10.

The Environment Minister of Delhi, Gopal Rai, announced this temporary closure on Monday, recognizing the mounting pollution levels and their potential health hazards. The government's decision to adjust the holiday schedule is motivated by a desire to minimize the adverse effects of the school closures on students' academic progress.

The air quality in Delhi has been fluctuating dramatically, and the latest readings confirm the city's struggle with pollution. On Wednesday, the overall air quality index (AQI) in Delhi plummeted back into the 'severe' category, only a day after a marginal improvement that briefly placed it in the 'very poor' category. The AQI for Delhi was recorded at 421 at 7 am, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Numerous air monitoring stations across the city reported AQI values exceeding 400 at 6 am. For instance, Anand Vihar registered an alarming AQI of 452, RK Puram recorded 433, Punjabi Bagh reached 460, and ITO stood at 413. These readings underscore the critical need for immediate measures to combat air pollution and protect the well-being of Delhi's residents, particularly its younger population.

The Delhi government's decision to bring forward the winter break for schools is a significant step towards safeguarding the health and education of the city's students. While it may disrupt the regular academic calendar, the government's primary concern is to ensure the safety of its youth during this ongoing environmental crisis. It is a reminder of the pressing need for comprehensive air quality management and measures to combat air pollution in Delhi.

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