As smog-laden air blankets Delhi-NCR and the Air Quality Index (AQI) consistently breaches the 400 mark, the commission has invoked GRAP Stage III to tackle the public-health emergency. Among the new directives: all schools with students in classes 1-5 will operate in hybrid mode (part in-person, part online) until further notice, in a bid to protect younger children from the worst impacts of toxic air.

GRAP Stage III also suspends non-essential construction and demolition, bans older polluting vehicles (BS-III/BS-IV) in Delhi and adjoining districts, limits diesel generator usage, and asks corporations to adopt work-from-home arrangements.

While the hybrid-schooling move reflects a government response to escalating pollution, health experts caution that the “very poor” to “severe” category still poses significant risk—not just for children, but for all residents. With wind speeds low and emissions from vehicles, dust and biomass burning unchecked, Delhi has entered what many call its annual smog cycle.

Authorities say stricter enforcement teams are now active and warn that further curbs may follow if the air quality does not improve. Residents are advised to reduce outdoor exposure, use air purifiers, wear N95/KN95 masks, and track AQI alerts closely.