Wed Dec 17 15:10:00 UTC 2025: News Article:
Delhi Government Mandates 50% Work From Home as Pollution Levels Remain High
New Delhi: In response to persistently high pollution levels in Delhi-NCR, the Delhi government has announced a mandatory 50% work-from-home policy for all government and private institutions, effective Thursday. The decision aims to reduce vehicular traffic and improve air quality in the capital. Institutions failing to comply with the directive will face heavy fines.
The announcement was made by Delhi Cabinet Minister Kapil Mishra, who emphasized the government’s commitment to mitigating the health risks posed by the deteriorating air quality. While the Air Quality Index (AQI) showed slight improvement, registering at 329 (“Very Poor”) on Wednesday, the government is taking proactive measures to prevent further deterioration.
Furthermore, the Delhi government will provide a compensation of ₹10,000 to registered construction workers affected by the ban on construction activities under GRAP-3 regulations. The Labor Department has decided to provide this financial relief directly to the workers’ accounts to help them cope with the 16-day construction halt. Similar relief will be extended after the conclusion of GRAP-4 based on the same criteria.
The decision comes as Delhi continues to grapple with hazardous levels of air pollution, impacting flight and transport services in recent days. While improved wind conditions and reduced fog contributed to a slight dip in pollution levels on Wednesday, the overall situation remains a concern.
Currently, GRAP IV, the strictest set of pollution control measures, is in effect in Delhi. The government has also implemented additional restrictions, including denying fuel to vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate and banning the entry of non-Delhi vehicles that do not meet BS-VI emission standards.
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