Dense fog, Cold wave disrupt schools in Noida
As harsh winter conditions continue to grip parts of Uttar Pradesh, the Gautam Buddh Nagar district administration has revised school timings for all classes to ensure student safety. Officials confirmed on Sunday that the decision comes in response to persistent dense fog and an ongoing cold wave across the region.
New School Timings Effective From January 19
According to an official order issued under the directions of the District Magistrate, all schools in Gautam Buddh Nagar will now operate between 10:00 am and 3:00 pm, effective January 19, 2026, until further notice.
The revised schedule applies uniformly to government and private schools, including institutions affiliated with CBSE, ICSE, IB, the UP Board, and other educational boards. Authorities have emphasized that the directive must be followed strictly by all schools across the district.
Precautionary Step to Protect Children
The move reflects growing concern over reduced visibility and biting cold temperatures, particularly during early morning hours. District officials noted that these preventive measures are especially important for young children, who are more vulnerable to extreme weather conditions.
By pushing back school start times, the administration aims to minimize exposure to hazardous travel conditions caused by dense fog and low temperatures.
Dense Fog Continues to Blanket Delhi-NCR
The weather situation remains challenging across the National Capital Region as well. Large parts of Delhi witnessed poor visibility on Sunday morning, with cold wave conditions continuing unabated.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported widespread fog during the early hours, ranging from moderate fog at several locations to dense fog at isolated spots. Minimum temperatures hovered between 5 and 7 degrees Celsius, dipping 1.6 to 3 degrees below normal for this time of year.
Stage-IV GRAP Measures Reimposed Over Rising Pollution
Compounding the winter challenges, air quality across Delhi and the NCR has worsened significantly. On Saturday, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reinstated Stage-IV measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the region.
In its official order, the CAQM cited deteriorating air quality trends and unanimously decided to activate all actions under Stage-IV (Severe Air Quality, AQI above 450) with immediate effect. These measures are being enforced in addition to restrictions already in place under Stages I, II, and III.
Authorities Urge Caution as Conditions Remain Severe
The CAQM has also directed NCR Pollution Control Boards and other concerned agencies to intensify preventive steps to curb further deterioration in air quality.
With severe pollution levels, dense fog, and cold wave conditions persisting, authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activities, adhere to health advisories, and take necessary precautions to safeguard themselves from hazardous air conditions.
As winter tightens its grip, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether these measures bring relief, or if further restrictions become unavoidable.