Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated significantly, with the AQI reaching 396, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category. Consequently, a 50% work-from-home mandate has been enforced for all government and private offices across the National Capital Region (NCR). This strategic move, part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), seeks to reduce the number of people commuting and thereby lower pollution levels. Air quality is expected to remain in this concerning range until November 26. While 50% of staff will work remotely, essential public services will continue to be delivered, with department heads retaining the authority to call employees to the office as needed. High pollution readings, some in the ‘severe’ bracket, have been reported in areas like Anand Vihar and Bawana, contributing to the dense smog blanketing the city. This situation mirrors past environmental challenges faced by Delhi.
