The Delhi government has made work from home mandatory for 50 per cent of employees in all government and private offices from December 18, a senior minister announced on Tuesday.
The decision comes as Delhi continues to battle severe air pollution, with authorities stepping up emergency measures to protect public health. The minister said the move aims to reduce vehicular traffic and curb emissions, one of the key contributors to the city’s hazardous air quality.
In another major relief measure, the Delhi government announced financial assistance of ₹10,000 for workers whose livelihoods have been affected by anti-pollution restrictions, including curbs on construction activities and industrial operations. The compensation is intended to support daily wage workers and others who have lost income due to pollution-control measures.
“The health of citizens is our top priority. Along with strict curbs, we are ensuring that workers impacted by these restrictions are not left without support,” the minister said.
The latest steps are part of the government’s broader anti-pollution strategy, which includes restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), limits on construction work, and tighter checks on vehicles and industries.
Authorities have urged residents to cooperate with the measures, reduce unnecessary travel, and follow health advisories as Delhi continues to grapple with one of its worst pollution spells of the season.
