Delhi Government Orders 50% Work from Home Amid Severe Air Pollution

New Delhi: In the wake of dangerously high air pollution in Delhi, the government has imposed strict measures, directing both government and private offices in the capital to allow 50 percent of their employees to work from home.

The government has warned that institutions violating the order will face heavy fines. The directive comes as part of the fourth phase of the Graded Response Action Plan implemented by the Air Quality Management Commission, in response to soaring pollution levels in the capital city.

Environment Minister Gopal Rai stated that private companies must permit half of their workforce to work remotely. Special squads have been deployed to monitor compliance. The aim is to reduce vehicular traffic on the roads and curb pollution.

Offices providing essential services are exempt from this order. Earlier, the government had already prohibited truck movements and construction activities due to the continued presence of severe pollution levels in the atmosphere.

Reports indicate a sharp rise in hospital visits for respiratory ailments due to worsening air quality.

Meanwhile, the Delhi government has decided to pay 10,000 rupees to workers hit by anti pollution restrictions.