50% employees will now work from home, Atishi government's decision due to pollution

Delhi Air Pollution: In view of the rising air pollution in Delhi and its serious effects, the government has taken important steps in the capital. From November 21, 50 percent of the employees in Delhi government offices have been given the facility of work from home (WFH). This decision has been taken under Phase-4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which is implemented at severe levels of pollution.

Instructions for government and private sectors

Delhi government Environment Minister Gopal Rai informed that about 1.4 lakh employees work in government offices, Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), and other agencies. Half of these employees will now work from home. Apart from this, private companies have also been advised to operate offices with 50 percent employees.

The minister has urged the private sector to play an active role in reducing air pollution. He said that industries and businesses can also help in pollution control by taking similar steps.

Suggestions for change in bus services and office timings

To control pollution caused by vehicles, Gopal Rai suggested that big companies start bus services for their employees. Along with this, he also stressed on changing the office timings. According to Rai, by changing the office timing between 10:30 am to 11:00 am, traffic pressure and pollution caused by vehicles can be reduced.

Current level of pollution in Delhi

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi on Wednesday was recorded at 426, which falls in the "severe" category. It is not only harmful to health but also promotes many respiratory and cardiac problems. Apart from pollution, Delhi also recorded the coldest night of this season on Wednesday night.

Government's effort and appeal to the public

The Delhi government believes that initiatives like work from home will be helpful in reducing the impact of air pollution. Gopal Rai said, "We are constantly trying to control pollution and we hope that the situation will improve soon."

The public has also been appealed to minimise the use of private vehicles and use public transport as much as possible. Along with this, construction works and industries have been asked to follow the rules so that pollution can be curbed.

Conclusion:

This step taken by the Delhi government is a positive initiative in pollution control. If the private sector and the general public also contribute in this direction, then Delhi's air quality can be improved.