Delhi’s Air Quality Declares ‘Very Poor’: 50% Staff to Work Remotely

Residents of Delhi are enduring a smog-filled environment as the Air Quality Index (AQI) hovers around 396, classified as ‘very poor’. To combat the worsening pollution, authorities have mandated that government and private offices in Delhi operate with a reduced on-site workforce of 50%. The remaining employees must work from home, a key component of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage III. This directive aims to curb emissions and improve air quality, which is predicted to remain poor until at least November 26. Administrative Secretaries and Department Heads are still required to attend office to ensure the uninterrupted provision of public services, with the flexibility to call in necessary staff. Similar restrictions apply to private sector companies operating within the National Capital Territory. Several regions, including Ghazipur, have recorded AQI levels in the ‘severe’ category, highlighting the extent of the pollution crisis.