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Schools in Noida, Delhi, Gurgaon May Shift to Online Mode Amidst GRAP 4

The Indian Express
January 18, 20264 days ago
Noida, Delhi, Gurgaon schools may shift to online mode under GRAP 4

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Schools in Noida, Delhi, and Gurgaon may transition to online learning due to the reimposition of Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV restrictions. This measure is implemented when air quality deteriorates to the 'Severe Plus' category, exceeding an AQI of 450, to protect students from hazardous air. Educational institutions are directed to shift to online or hybrid modes under such conditions.

However, as of now, there is no official confirmation on school closures for Monday, January 19. Parents and students can stay updated with information as and when shared by their respective school authorities, district administration or state-governments. What is GRAP? GRAP, or the Graded Response Action Plan, is a structured set of emergency measures enforced in Delhi-NCR to control rising air pollution. It lays down stage-wise restrictions based on AQI levels, with stricter curbs coming into effect as pollution worsens. Stage 1 comes into force when air quality falls in the ‘Poor’ category, with AQI levels between 201 and 300. Next, GRAP Stage 2 is implemented when AQI deteriorates to the ‘Very Poor’ range of 301 to 400. Story continues below this ad When air quality turns ‘Severe’, with AQI readings between 401 and 450, GRAP Stage 3 is put in place. Stage 4, the highest level, is enforced when AQI crosses 450, placing air quality in the ‘Severe Plus’ category. Are schools closed under GRAP-4? Yes, under GRAP Stage 4, physical classes in schools are generally suspended. Educational institutions are directed to shift to online or hybrid learning modes to reduce students’ exposure to hazardous air conditions. As of January 18, 2026, GRAP-IV restrictions have been reimposed across Delhi and NCR districts, including Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Budh Nagar, following a sharp deterioration in air quality. Under GRAP Stage IV, state governments have the authority to suspend in-person classes and shift schools to online or hybrid modes if air quality is deemed hazardous. Story continues below this ad Meanwhile, in Maharashtra, educational institutions in parts of Pune will remain closed on Monday in view of the ‘Pune Grand Tour 2026’, an international cycling event scheduled to begin in the city. Schools, colleges and other educational institutions have been asked to suspend physical classes as extensive traffic restrictions will be in place throughout the day. Also Read| Schools, colleges to remain closed on Jan 19 for Pune Grand Tour 2026 cycle race Authorities said the decision was taken as the prologue race of the cycling event will be held in Pune on Monday, requiring the closure of several major roads from 9 am to 6 pm. The Pune traffic department has issued advisories regarding traffic diversions and road closures in key areas, including Ganesh Khind Road, Jangli Maharaj Road and Fergusson Road. The Pune Grand Tour 2026 is a five-day Continental Road Cycling Race for Men, scheduled from January 19 to January 23. The race will cover a total distance of 437 kilometres, passing through the Deccan Plateau and the Sahyadri Range, and is expected to feature challenging terrain with sharp turns and elevation changes. The event has drawn 171 riders representing 29 teams from 35 countries, officials said.

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    Noida Schools Online? GRAP 4 Pollution Curbs