Lagatar24 Desk
NEW DELHI: In light of Delhi’s worsening air quality, Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced on Wednesday that 50% of Delhi government employees will work from home. This decision comes as part of broader efforts to mitigate the impact of hazardous pollution levels in the National Capital Region (NCR).
“To reduce pollution, the Delhi government has decided to implement work-from-home provisions in government offices. 50% of the staff will work remotely,” Rai posted on X. Further discussions with officers regarding the implementation of this provision will follow later today, he added.
Staggered Office Timings in Effect
The Delhi government had previously introduced staggered office timings for government and Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) offices. MCD offices will operate from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, while Delhi government offices will follow a 10:00 am to 6:30 pm schedule.
Critical Air Quality Levels Persist
Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) recorded an alarming 460 on Tuesday, slightly lower than Monday’s record 494 but still categorized as “severe-plus.” An AQI above 450 indicates extreme pollution, posing health risks to all age groups.
Experts have emphasized the health dangers of prolonged exposure to such high pollution levels, which can lead to severe short- and long-term ailments.
CAQM Enforces GRAP-IV Measures
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), enforcing strict restrictions. Measures include a ban on construction activities and provisions for schools to shift classes online for most students.
No Immediate Respite from Weather Conditions
Weather forecasts indicate that surface winds will remain weak over the next three days, limiting the dispersion of pollutants and prolonging the city’s air quality crisis.
