To combat the persistent air pollution crisis, Delhi’s administration and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) will introduce staggered working hours from November 15, 2025, through February 15, 2026. This proactive measure is designed to reduce traffic density during rush hours, a key factor contributing to the city’s poor air quality.
Officials explained that the current closely aligned office timings for Delhi Government and MCD employees create significant traffic congestion, which in turn worsens air pollution. The new system aims to create a more substantial buffer between commuting periods.
Delhi Government offices will now operate from 10:00 am to 6:30 pm, a shift from their earlier 9:30 am start. Conversely, MCD offices will begin earlier, operating from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, moving from their previous 9:00 am to 5:30 pm schedule. This aims to spread out the commuter influx, easing pressure on roadways.
This policy change is a direct response to the severe air quality readings observed in Delhi and the wider National Capital Region. The city’s AQI stood at 322, firmly in the ‘very poor’ zone, with most monitoring sites exceeding dangerous levels. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is the predominant pollutant, and transport emissions are a major source. The pollution extends to surrounding areas, with Ghaziabad and Noida also facing severe air quality issues.