New Delhi: Amid hazardous pollution levels in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced on Monday that physical classes for Class 10 and 12 students will be suspended from Tuesday, with all studies shifting online. This move revises the Delhi government's earlier decision, which had only suspended in-person classes for all students except those in Classes 10 and 12. The revision comes as air quality continues to deteriorate, with the city grappling with its worst pollution levels this season.

The shift to online classes aims to protect students from the harmful effects of the air quality, but it has sparked concerns from parents, students, and school authorities.

Students voice concerns over recurring disruptions

Class 12 student Sahez expressed her frustration at missing important school programmes due to repeated school closures for similar reasons last year. "It feels disheartening to have opportunities taken away because of a recurring problem. Instead of solving it, we've learnt to live with it. Holding online classes during peak pollution only replaces one problem with another, as sitting in front of screens for eight hours is equally harmful,” she said.

Pollution levels reach hazardous levels in the capital

Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 484 on Monday morning, the worst of the season, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). In response to the worsening pollution, the Delhi government moved to online classes for Class 10 and 12 students in an effort to protect public health.

Parents face logistical challenges with sudden shifts

Aprajhita Gautam, President of the Delhi Parents Association (DPA), highlighted the difficulties parents face with last-minute notifications. "Some parents didn’t receive the notification and sent their children to school, only for them to return," Gautam explained. She stressed the importance of informing parents in advance to avoid confusion and distress.

Additionally, Gautam noted that many families lack access to extra devices like laptops or phones, making it difficult for students to participate in online classes. “This disproportionately affects older students, particularly those preparing for board exams. We urgently need concrete steps to address this issue permanently,” she said.

Schools call for long-term solutions to recurring problem

Vividh Gupta, Principal of Bal Bhavan Public School in Mayur Vihar, agreed that online classes were necessary for health reasons but emphasised that the recurring pollution problem requires long-term solutions. "Every year after Diwali, schools are forced to close due to rising pollution levels, impacting students' studies. It’s crucial for students above Class 6 to experience activities and lessons that are best suited for a classroom environment," Gupta said.

The government’s revised decision underscores the ongoing struggle to balance public health with education during peak pollution periods.

With PTI inputs