Delhi is grappling with a severe pollution crisis as its Air Quality Index (AQI) soared to hazardous levels on Wednesday, with several areas registering alarming readings. In response, the Delhi government announced urgent measures, including a partial shift to a work-from-home policy for its employees.
Government Offices to Implement Work-from-Home
Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai stated that 50% of government employees would work remotely to curb pollution levels. A meeting was scheduled at 1 PM on Wednesday to finalize the implementation.
“To reduce pollution, the Delhi government has decided to implement work-from-home for 50% of employees in government offices,” Rai posted on X (formerly Twitter).
प्रदुषण कम करने के लिए दिल्ली सरकार ने सरकारी दफ़्तरो में वर्क फ्रॉम होम का लिया निर्णय
— Gopal Rai (@AapKaGopalRai) November 20, 2024
50% कर्मचारी करेंगे घर से काम
इसके इम्पलिमेंटेशन के लिए सचिवालय में आज दोपहर 1 बजे अधिकारियों के साथ होगी बैठक
In addition to the work-from-home policy, the government introduced staggered office timings. Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) offices will operate from 8:30 AM to 5 PM, while Delhi government offices will function between 10 AM and 6:30 PM.
AQI Levels Across Delhi
The pollution crisis has left residents struggling as AQI levels in several areas of the city remain hazardous. Below are the AQI readings from key locations:
- Ashok Vihar Phase 2: 527
- Anand Vihar: 591
- Ashok Vihar Phases 3 and 4: 634
- GTB Nagar: 617
- Dwarka Sector 11: 521
Other areas, such as Alipur, Anand Lok, and Dwarka Sector 23, also recorded AQI levels well above 400, indicating “severe” pollution.
Enforcement of GRAP Stage IV
To combat the alarming pollution levels, Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been enforced since November 18. Under this plan, the operation of Delhi-registered BS-IV and older diesel-operated medium and heavy goods vehicles is banned, except for those involved in essential services.
The Delhi Police conducted vehicle checks on Tuesday night to ensure compliance with these measures.
Supreme Court’s Directive
The Supreme Court has intervened, directing the Delhi and National Capital Region (NCR) governments to strictly implement GRAP Stage IV measures. The court emphasized that these steps should remain in place even if the AQI temporarily drops below 450.
It further instructed NCR states to form monitoring teams and file compliance affidavits to ensure strict adherence to the action plan.
A City in Crisis
Delhi’s pollution levels have worsened despite ongoing efforts, posing serious health risks to its residents. With the AQI in some areas exceeding 600, the city’s air quality continues to be a critical issue, demanding immediate and sustained action from authorities.
As the winter months approach, the combination of stagnant weather conditions and emissions is expected to exacerbate the situation, making it imperative for all stakeholders to collaborate in addressing this pressing environmental challenge.
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