CAQM directed the Delhi government, NCR state governments and implementing agencies to ensure compliance. (PTI Photo)DEEPAK DEEPAK

50% workforce WFH, construction ban: Delhi's plan to tackle pollution in November

The restrictions apply to offices in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar. Industrial establishments and essential services where such arrangements are not feasible are exempt.

by · India Today

In Short

  • Restrictions apply to Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Ghaziabad, Noida
  • Authorities also ban dusty demolition, outdoor construction across NCR
  • Exemptions for essential services and national importance projects

Government and private offices in Delhi and five adjoining NCR districts will operate with up to 50 per cent physical attendance from November 5 to 20 under preventive pollution measures ordered by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).

The restrictions apply to offices in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar, with the remaining staff working from home. Industrial establishments and essential services where such arrangements are not feasible are exempt.

In its October 30 order, CAQM directed the Delhi government, NCR state governments and implementing agencies to ensure compliance.

CONSTRUCTION RESTRICTIONS ACROSS NCR

The commission has also restricted dust-generating demolition and outdoor construction activities across NCR during the 16-day period.

The restrictions cover linear infrastructure projects, including highways, roads, flyovers, overbridges, power transmission lines, pipelines and telecommunications projects.

Projects related to railways, Metro services, airports, inter-state bus terminals, hospitals, water supply and sanitation are exempt. The exemptions also cover national security, defence and projects of national importance.

MEASURES AHEAD OF PEAK POLLUTION PERIOD

CAQM said Air Quality Index (AQI) data from 2018 to 2025 showed that Delhi-NCR frequently recorded ‘Severe’ and ‘Severe+’ pollution levels in early and mid-November.

Low wind speeds and limited air movement during this period prevent pollutants from dispersing, allowing them to accumulate near the ground.

The commission said the temporary measures were intended to reduce emissions ahead of and during the expected peak pollution period.

- Ends