Delhi-NCR Schools Face Uncertainty Amid Air Quality Concerns

The air pollution crisis in Delhi-NCR has led to the implementation of GRAP-3, affecting school operations. With concerns rising about potential GRAP-4 restrictions, questions loom over school closures. The Commission for Air Quality Management has clarified that GRAP-4 is not currently in effect, urging the public to rely on official updates. Key provisions of GRAP-4 include vehicle restrictions, a construction ban, and a work-from-home directive for employees. Stay informed about the evolving situation and its impact on education in the region.

By Ambika Singh Nov 19, 2025, 12:06 IST

Current Air Quality Situation in Delhi

Delhi Schools: The air pollution crisis in the Delhi-NCR region continues to be a major concern. The implementation of GRAP-3 mandates that schools operate in a hybrid format. If the air quality index surpasses 451, GRAP-4 restrictions will come into play. This raises the question: will schools in Delhi-NCR close if GRAP-4 is activated?

Previous School Closures Under GRAP-4

Last year, when GRAP-4 was enforced in Delhi, all schools were shut down, with the exception of those for 10th and 12th grades, which remained open for board examinations.

Status of GRAP-4 Implementation

Have GRAP-4 restrictions been implemented in Delhi?

There has been widespread speculation about the activation of GRAP-4 restrictions in Delhi. However, the Commission for Air Quality Management has labeled this as misinformation. They issued a statement clarifying that misleading reports regarding GRAP-4's implementation are circulating on various media platforms. Currently, Phase III of the existing GRAP is in effect throughout the NCR. The public and stakeholders are encouraged to refer only to official communications from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for accurate updates.

Key Provisions and Restrictions Under GRAP-4

Vehicle Restrictions: Only trucks transporting essential goods or those operating on clean fuels like CNG, LNG, BS-IV diesel, or electric vehicles will be allowed entry into Delhi. All other trucks will be banned.

Construction Ban: All construction activities at public and government project sites will be suspended, whereas GRAP-3 only restricts non-essential construction.

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions: Non-essential commercial vehicles from outside Delhi will be barred, except for those running on CNG and BS-IV diesel.

Work from Home Directive: If GRAP-4 is enacted, it will require 50% of employees in both government and private sectors to work from home to alleviate traffic congestion.