Delhi has taken a major step to tackle its worsening air pollution. On Wednesday, December 17, the Delhi government announced a series of strict measures after the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) slipped into the ‘very poor’ category. The most significant decision is the implementation of a 50% work-from-home (WFH) policy for both government and private offices. Alongside this, construction activities have been banned, and financial relief has been announced for affected workers. These measures aim to reduce pollution exposure and protect public health. The decision comes amid growing concern over vehicular emissions and dust pollution, which continue to choke the national capital.
All Government Offices under GNCTD and all Private Offices operating within the National Capital Territory of Delhi, to work on 50% strength and the rest to work from home under the Graded Response Action Plan.
For Government Offices under GNCTD- All Administrative Secretaries… pic.twitter.com/ZMr7XTKAJY
— ANI (@ANI) November 24, 2025
50% Work From Home
Under the new directive, offices across Delhi must ensure that at least 50% of their workforce operates from home until further notice. The government believes this will significantly reduce road traffic and vehicular emissions. Citizens had been demanding such steps for weeks, citing rising health problems. A recent survey revealed that a large majority of Delhi-NCR residents know someone affected by pollution-related illnesses.
Relief for Workers
To control dust pollution, construction activities have been suspended across the city. As a relief measure, the government announced Rs 10,000 compensation for registered and verified construction workers, which will be transferred directly to their bank accounts through DBT. From December 18, all non-BS VI vehicles will be barred from entering Delhi. This decision, however, has sparked concern among commuters from NCR regions like Noida and Gurugram, where many still use older vehicles.
