Nishant Kumar Yadav, Deputy Commissioner of Gurugram on Monday announced several proactive steps to address air pollution concerns in Gurugram.
” Discontinuation of Pre School, Pre Primary & Primary classes (Nursery to class V) in physical form from 7th November 2023 for both Private and Govt.Schools.,” writes DC Gurugram on X (formerly Twitter).
The order from the deputy commissioner has suggested schools to adopt online classes for the time being. “Transition to online lessons for students up to Grade 5, ensuring easy access to online resources,” the post further reads.
Gurugram’s air quality has stayed at a ‘Very Poor’ level for three consecutive days. Starting November 7, this rule will affect both private and government schools in the area until there are new instructions.
On November 5, 2023, the Delhi government announced the extension of the closure of schools up to the fifth grade until November 10, 2023. Atishi, the Education Minister of Delhi, shared this update via a tweet on a social media platform, saying, “Due to ongoing high pollution levels, primary schools in Delhi will remain shut until November 10th.”
Preventive Measures to Protect Yourself from Poor Air Quality
Here are some ways to stay healthy and protect yourself when the air quality isn’t great:
Reduce Outdoor Time: When the air quality is not good, especially during high pollution periods like rush hours, it’s a good idea to limit your time outside.
Stay Updated: Keep an eye on the air quality forecasts in your area. You can find this information on government websites, apps, or through air quality monitoring services.
Wear Masks if Necessary: If the air quality is really bad, wearing masks that filter out tiny particles can help. Look for masks like N95 or ones specifically designed for filtering out particulate matter.
Keep Indoor Air Clean: Make sure the air inside your home is healthy by using air purifiers with HEPA filters. Keep windows and doors closed to stop outdoor pollutants from coming in.
Avoid Polluting Activities: Try to limit activities inside your home that can add to indoor pollution, like smoking, burning candles, or using fireplaces.
Plan Outdoor Time Smartly: If you have to be outside, try to plan your activities when the air quality is better, like early morning or late evening when pollution levels tend to be lower.
Support Clean Energy: Try to use cleaner modes of transportation like public transport, biking, or walking instead of driving alone to reduce emissions.
Healthy Living: It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and staying hydrated can help your body cope better with exposure to poor air quality.