New Delhi : Schools in Delhi were again forced to close indefinitely due to severe air pollution. Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced the closure of schools will be closed from 3rd Friday.

The minister said the decision to reopen the schools was taken when the pollution level improved. But the situation has since worsened, and the level of pollution has increased again. The minister said the schools would not function until further notice.

Earlier, the apex court had strongly criticized the Delhi government's decision to reopen schools. The Supreme Court has remarked that the pollution levels in Delhi are high. The bench said the court would appoint an authority to evaluate the steps taken by the government to reduce pollution.

Schools have remained closed for more than two weeks since November 13th due to air pollution. Classes resumed on Monday, November 29th in schools, colleges and other educational institutions. The schools will remain shut from today due to the air pollution situation under severe criticism from the court.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has expressed concern over the rising air pollution and has given the Center and the Delhi government 24 hours to formulate plans to implement pollution control measures.