Delhi Reviews GRAP IV as AQI Remains Hazardous, No School Closure Announced Yet

Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) continue to grapple with hazardous air pollution levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hovering in the "Very Poor" to "Severe" category across key monitoring stations. As of 9 a.m. on November 21, 2025, central Delhi's ITO area recorded an AQI of 381, while India Gate stood at 331, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). These readings, though improved slightly from the previous week's peaks above 450, still pose significant health risks, particularly to children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Health experts recommend mandatory mask-wearing outdoors and minimal exposure for vulnerable groups amid reports of increased breathing difficulties among residents.

No official announcements have been made for full school closures in Delhi, Noida, or Ghaziabad today, November 21, 2025. The Delhi government's Directorate of Education has not issued any new advisories overnight, maintaining the status quo from earlier GRAP Stage III measures implemented on November 11. Under these, primary classes (up to Grade 5) in Delhi government, aided, and private schools remain in hybrid mode—combining online and offline sessions—to limit outdoor time. Parents and students are urged to check individual school notifications, as some institutions may opt for full online classes based on local AQI trends. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is reviewing a potential escalation to GRAP IV, which could trigger widespread shutdowns, but no decision has been confirmed as of this morning.

In Noida (Gautam Buddh Nagar district, Uttar Pradesh), schools for Grades 1-5 have been in online-only mode since November 18 under GRAP IV directives, extended until at least November 23 due to persistent "Severe+" AQI levels exceeding 400 in parts of the area. However, no fresh orders for full closures across all grades were issued for today, meaning higher classes (6-12) are expected to proceed with physical attendance unless updated by district authorities. Similarly, in Ghaziabad (another NCR hotspot with AQI around 350-380), primary sections follow hybrid protocols aligned with CAQM guidelines, but secondary schools remain operational. Local administrations in both cities emphasise staggered timings and indoor activities to mitigate risks, with parents advised to monitor Uttar Pradesh Basic Education Department alerts.

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The ongoing crisis has amplified calls from parent groups and student unions for comprehensive online learning across all grades until the AQI dips below 300, citing the unpredictability's toll on childcare and academics. This comes amid broader GRAP III enforcement, including bans on non-essential vehicles and construction, though implementation challenges persist. Meanwhile, Delhi Education Minister Atishi has outlined long-term reforms, including a five-year modernisation plan for government and MCD schools with AI tools and NEP 2020-aligned upgrades, funded partly by CSR initiatives to bolster resilience against environmental disruptions.

As the situation evolves, authorities stress vigilance: the CAQM's early warning system forecasts AQI stabilisation only by late November if wind patterns improve. Families in Delhi, Noida, and Ghaziabad should prioritise air purifiers indoors, avoid outdoor sports, and follow real-time CPCB updates via the Sameer app. With GRAP IV under consideration, a midday announcement could alter school operations—stay tuned to official channels for the latest.

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