Work From Home Mandate for Delhi Offices Amidst Poor AQI

The national capital, Delhi, is grappling with critically polluted air, evidenced by an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 396, falling into the ‘very poor’ classification. In response to the escalating environmental crisis, authorities have enforced new work-from-home guidelines. Government and private offices within Delhi and the NCR are now required to operate with only half of their staff present on-site, with the rest working remotely. This measure is part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to mitigate pollution. Projections suggest the AQI will stay in the ‘very poor’ range until November 26. This policy ensures continuity of essential services while reducing vehicular emissions and other pollution sources. High pollution levels are particularly noticeable in areas such as Bawana and Anand Vihar, which are reporting ‘severe’ AQI readings. The visible smog layer over the city underscores the urgency of these environmental controls.