Sep 22, 2025, Noida: Authorities ordered immediate closure of all schools up to grade 12 across Noida after air quality plummeted to “very poor” levels, affecting over 2 lakh students and sparking health concerns.
The Air Quality Index breached 300 in several areas, prompting urgent directives from the District Magistrate. Parents have been urged to keep children indoors and take necessary health precautions.
“My daughter started coughing badly yesterday evening,” said concerned parent Ritu Singh. “When I checked the air quality app, it was showing hazardous levels. Thank God schools are closed today.”
Another parent, Amit Kumar, said the timing is particularly bad with festival season. “Navratri just started and now we can’t even let kids play outside. The pollution is getting worse every year.”
Doctors across Noida hospitals report a surge in respiratory complaints, especially among children and elderly residents. “We’re seeing 40% more cases of breathing problems compared to last week,” said Dr. Priya Sharma from a leading Noida hospital.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and will review school reopening based on improved air quality readings.