Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Nov 24: Amid worsening air pollution, the Delhi government on Monday issued an advisory directing all government and private offices to function with only 50% on-site staff, while the remaining employees will work from home. The move follows directions from the Commission for Air Quality Management and aims to reduce both exposure and vehicular emissions, reported AIR.

Delhi Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the administration is taking proactive steps under GRAP III with a strong focus on safeguarding public health. “The government is proactively implementing pollution control measures with intensified focus on public health and air quality protection,” he stated.

The government has also mandated staggered office timings for all departments, including those under the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), until February 2026.

• MCD offices: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
• Delhi government offices: 10:00 am to 6:30 pm

Under the new advisory:

• All administrative secretaries and heads of departments will attend office regularly, but only 50% of staff may be physically present. The rest will work from home, with the option to be called in if needed for essential or emergency services.
• All private offices across the National Capital Territory must also restrict on-site attendance to not more than 50%, with the rest working remotely.

Over 2,000 enforcement personnel have been deployed across agencies to monitor compliance with pollution-related protocols. Private offices have been urged to disseminate the guidelines across all branches and ensure effective implementation.

Sirsa added that the government will continue issuing necessary directions to tackle air pollution and minimise its impact on residents.