Delhi government announces early winter break in schools amid severe air pollution

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• Nov 8, 2023 | Dhupali Das

The Delhi government has announced an early winter break for schools from November 9 to 18...

Digital Desk: In response to the deteriorating air quality in the national capital, the Delhi government has announced an early winter break for schools from November 9 to 18. This decision comes as Delhi's air quality index (AQI) returned to the 'severe' category on Wednesday, following a brief respite when it was categorized as 'very poor.'

The Delhi education department issued a statement saying, "In view of air pollution, the winter break for all schools, which is usually scheduled for December, has been rescheduled to take place from November 9 to 18." The move aims to protect the health and well-being of students as air pollution in Delhi continues to be a serious concern.

Environment Minister Gopal Rai had previously directed all schools in Delhi to suspend physical classes, with the exception of classes 10 and 12, until November 10 due to rising pollution levels. To ensure minimal disruption to students' studies, these additional holidays are being adjusted within the revised winter break period.

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As of 7 a.m. on Wednesday, the city's overall AQI was recorded at 421, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Several air monitoring stations in different parts of the city reported AQI levels above 400, with Anand Vihar at 452, RK Puram at 433, Punjabi Bagh at 460, and ITO at 413.

The Delhi government's decision to prioritize students' health and safety by implementing an early winter break reflects the ongoing efforts to address the critical air quality issues faced by the capital city.