Schools Closed:
In response to escalating air pollution, the Haryana government has followed Delhi's lead in keeping schools closed. Due to pollution and smog, primary schools in four Haryana districts have been closed to protect children's health, ceasing physical classes for fifth graders.
The Impact of Air Pollution in Haryana
For the fifth day, air pollution in Delhi remains classified as 'severe'. As per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), AQI levels in 14 locations of Delhi surpassed 400 on Sunday morning (November 17, 2024). Reports indicate that about 37% of the pollution is attributed to crop residue burning in neighboring states. Concurrently, many Haryana districts are nearing an AQI of 400, prompting the Haryana government to shut primary schools in various districts due to hazardous air pollution.
Primary Schools Shut in These Districts of Haryana
The Haryana government has decided to close primary schools in the districts of Gurugram, Rohtak, Sonipat, and Jhajjar until further notice due to air pollution. However, student education is not affected as schools have been instructed to switch to online learning.
Potential School Closures in 10 More Cities of Haryana
If the situation deteriorates, schools in 10 additional cities, including Faridabad, Nuh, Rewari, Panipat, Palwal, Bhiwani, Charkhi Dadri, Mahendragarh, Jind, and Karnal, may be closed. Haryana's NCR region comprises 14 cities, and the state's Education Department has permitted district commissioners to decide on closures based on local pollution and smog assessments.
Delhi Also Keeps Primary Schools Closed Until Further Notice
Previously, due to air pollution, all primary schools in Delhi were instructed to remain shut until further orders. Delhi Chief Minister Atishi stated that all schools have been directed to transition to online learning amidst the air pollution crisis.
