The Delhi government has mandated 50% remote work for all government and private offices in Delhi, effective December 18, due to the spiking pollution index.
This comes as part of the emergency measures under Stage III and Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which is triggered when pollution levels reach severe thresholds. Delhi’s labour minister Kapil Mishra announced at a press briefing. He stated that this measure is crucial to minimise vehicle movement in the city.
According to a report carried by People Matters, Mishra said, “From Thursday, all government and private institutions must ensure 50% of their workforce is working from home. Strict action will be taken against violators.”
However, the order exempts emergency services such as healthcare, fire services and pollution control agencies. Additionally, construction activities have been halted to minimise suspended dust particles in the air.
MIshra further stated that the government will provide an aid of Rs. 10,000 to the construction workers whose jobs may have been affected due to the halt in construction. The payout will cover workers affected during the 16 days of GRAP III implementation and will continue through the GRAP IV phase.
Earlier in November, the Delhi government directed the private companies to allow 50% of their employees to work from home, under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage III.
