Delhi Orders 50% Work-From-Home Amid Toxic Smog

As hazardous air pollution envelops the national capital, the Delhi government has enforced a mandatory work-from-home order for both government and private sector employees. Under the directive, offices across the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi must operate with no more than 50% staff on-site, while the remaining workforce works remotely. Authorities have warned that violations will attract penalties as the city implements stringent GRAP-4 emergency measures.

Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra clarified that the order applies to all private offices operating within the NCT. He also said the Labour Department has advised employers to introduce flexible and staggered working hours to reduce congestion during peak commuting times. Offices have additionally been encouraged to promote carpooling and other measures aimed at cutting vehicular emissions.

To cushion the impact of pollution-related construction bans, the government announced a one-time relief payment of ₹10,000 for construction workers and daily wage labourers affected by halted projects. Worker unions have welcomed the move but urged the government to consider sustained support, given repeated income losses during recurring pollution episodes.

The government has also tightened vehicle restrictions. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa announced that only BS-VI vehicles from outside Delhi will be allowed to enter the city. Vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will be denied fuel at petrol stations, with strict enforcement at entry points and fuel outlets.

Under GRAP-4, Delhi has further reduced office attendance, shifted several schools to online or hybrid classes, suspended outdoor activities, and restricted the movement of heavy vehicles. These measures aim to protect vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory illnesses.

Officials said broader anti-pollution efforts are ongoing, including clearing garbage dumps, reclaiming land, installing pollution-monitoring units, and targeting key pollution hotspots to bring down emissions across the city.