Gurugram: Schools in Gurugram, Haryana, have been ordered to close for students up to Class 5 due to hazardous air pollution levels in the National Capital Region (NCR). The decision was announced by Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar on Monday, following alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) readings in the district.  

As per an official statement, the AQI in some parts of Gurugram has been recorded in the “very poor” category, while it reached the “severe” category in others over the past 24 hours. The order to close schools will take effect from November 19 and remain in place until further notice.

“In the interest of the health and safety of children, all classes up to 5th standard will remain closed in all areas (urban and rural) of Gurugram district from November 19 till further orders,” the statement said. 

For students in higher classes, both government and private schools have been directed to switch to online teaching to avoid physical gatherings amid deteriorating air quality. 

Similar Measures Across NCR  

Similar steps have been taken in Noida and Ghaziabad, where schools have also been shut due to worsening pollution. In Delhi, schools and universities like Delhi University (DU) and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) have shifted to online classes as the city’s AQI crossed 400, indicating “severe” levels of air pollution. 

Understanding AQI Levels  

An AQI of 0-50 is categorized as ‘good,’ 51-100 ‘satisfactory,’ 101-200 ‘moderate,’ 201-300 ‘poor,’ 301-400 ‘very poor,’ and 401-450 ‘severe.’

AQI above 450 falls into the “severe plus” category. According to health experts, air quality in the “severe” range can harm even healthy individuals and severely impact those with existing medical conditions.  

Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors, use air purifiers, and avoid outdoor activities as much as possible until conditions improve.