Delhi Schools Go Hybrid as GRAP Stage-IV Kicks In Amid Severe AQI

Following last week's near-severe AQI surge to 387, Delhi-NCR's pollution has worsened into the severe zone, triggering GRAP Stage-IV measures. Schools up to Class 9 and 11 now offer hybrid classes to shield students from toxic smog.

As detailed in our prior coverage of the intensifying winter smog crisis—with AQI hitting 387 and hotspots exceeding 400—Delhi-NCR's air quality has plunged deeper into severe levels, prompting full GRAP Stage-IV emergency protocols on December 14.

Key new actions include directing schools for students up to Class 9 and Class 11 to hybrid mode, blending in-person and online classes to minimize exposure to hazardous air. IMD warnings highlight dense fog worsening visibility and disruptions.

Pollution curbs encompass vehicle restrictions and industrial halts, targeting stubble burning and emissions amid stagnant winter weather. Health advisories urge limited outdoor time, with continuous monitoring underway.

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Delhi-NCR skyline and streets blanketed in thick smog with AQI 454, traffic snarl, masked people amid winter pollution crisis.
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Delhi-NCR AQI Hits 454 in Escalating Winter Smog Crisis

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Following Saturday's surge to 387, Delhi-NCR's air quality deteriorated further on December 15, 2025, with AQI exceeding 450 amid dense smog and fog. IMD issued an orange alert, GRAP-4 enforced hybrid schooling and 50% work-from-home, while traffic and flights faced disruptions.

Following Tuesday's announcement, Delhi enforced the entry ban on non-BS-VI private vehicles from outside the city and 'No PUC, No Fuel' rule on December 18, 2025. AQI soared to 356-358 in 'very poor' category amid dense fog slashing visibility to 100m, disrupting flights and trains, though winds may aid dispersion later.

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Delhi's air quality has improved sharply, with the average AQI reaching 271 in the poor category, down from severe levels in previous days. The Commission for Air Quality Management has revoked stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan, though stage III remains in effect. However, forecasts indicate the situation may worsen again in the coming days.

On January 14, 2026, Delhi was enveloped in dense fog, a cold wave, and toxic air, disrupting daily life. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the city's overall Air Quality Index stood at 357 at 7 a.m., falling in the 'very poor' category. This has severely impacted public health and transportation.

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Despite a 90% reduction in stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, Delhi's air quality remained in the 'very poor' to 'severe' range throughout November 2025. Local pollution sources, including vehicular emissions, are identified as the primary drivers of the capital's persistent smog. The crisis raises concerns about children's health amid winter conditions.

Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) dropped to 184 in the moderate category on Saturday following Friday's rain and strong winds. This marks the first such improvement in over three months. Experts predict the respite will be short-lived.

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Delhi recorded its coldest day of the season on Saturday, with the maximum temperature at 16.9 degrees Celsius, 5.3 notches below normal. The city's average AQI reached 398, in the 'Very Poor' category, and is forecast to turn 'Severe' on Sunday and Monday. Noida's AQI was already 'Severe' at 401.

 

 

 

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