Delhi Govt, Private Offices Asked To Allow 50% Staff WFH As Air Pollution Worsens
This enforcement is part of the Graded Response Action Plan to reduce emissions.
In a move to combat air pollution, the Delhi government has mandated that all government and private offices must operate at a maximum of 50% physical attendance, with the remaining staff required to work from home (WFH).
This enforcement is part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to reduce emissions and vehicular movement as air quality deteriorates significantly during the winter months.
The directive comes as the air quality index (AQI) in the national capital reached high levels, driven primarily by dangerous concentrations of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). This level of air contamination necessitates immediate and stringent intervention to protect public health and curb pollution from localised sources.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) triggered the enforcement by shifting certain measures from GRAP Stage IV into the currently active Stage III. The WFH mandate directly targets the contribution of commute-related emissions to the overall pollution load.
Under the new order, offices are explicitly required to limit their physical staff to half capacity. Further, they are encouraged to implement staggered working timings to minimise congestion during peak hours, reducing the number of vehicles on the road simultaneously. Authorities have clarified that this mandate is binding across all government departments and private sector companies operating within the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
Recognising the need for continuity in essential services, several categories of operations have been granted exemptions. These include hospitals and healthcare facilities, fire services, public transport, and agencies involved in sanitation and pollution control activities.
The enforcement of these measures falls under the jurisdiction of various local and state authorities, who are tasked with strict adherence monitoring. Violations of the GRAP regulations are serious offences and are subject to punitive action under the provisions of the Environment Protection Act, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the ongoing public health crisis.
