Delhi Imposes Emergency WFH Order and Vehicle Bans as Toxic Smog Chokes City

Delhi-NCR residents woke to another day of hazardous smog on Thursday, December 18. Authorities activated a new set of emergency anti-pollution measures. The actions target “severe” Air Quality Index levels recorded across the region.The fresh restrictions expand on existing Graded Response Action Plan rules. They mandate partial work-from-home for offices and ban older, polluting vehicles. The goal is immediate reduction in toxic emissions.

Strict 50% Work-From-Home Rule Takes Effect

The Delhi government has ordered all public and private institutions to operate at 50% capacity. Half of all staff must now work from home. This rule is effective immediately.Officials warn of action against non-compliant offices. According to Reuters, the mandate is a direct response to consecutive days of severe air quality. The aim is to reduce traffic and associated pollution.Important exemptions are in place. Frontline and emergency service workers are not included. This covers hospital staff, sanitation workers, and pollution control teams.Labour Minister Kapil Mishra also announced financial support. Construction workers idled by a separate building ban will receive compensation. This addresses the economic impact of prolonged pollution curbs.

Vehicle Ban and Fuel Restrictions Enforced at Borders

Simultaneously, a major crackdown on vehicular pollution began. Delhi Traffic Police are enforcing strict checks at entry points and petrol pumps. Non-BS-VI diesel vehicles are barred from entering the capital.Furthermore, vehicles cannot get fuel without a valid Pollution Under Control certificate. This rule applies at all petrol stations in Delhi. The environment minister stated this is a zero-tolerance measure.Reports from the Associated Press confirm trucks carrying construction materials are also banned. This strengthens the ongoing ban on construction activity itself. The transport department has deployed extra teams for enforcement.Schools for younger children have already shifted to online classes. The broader hybrid learning model remains for other grades. The cumulative effect of these steps aims for a rapid improvement in AQI.

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The success of these emergency measures is crucial for Delhi’s public health. The city’s severe AQI crisis demands immediate and sustained action. Officials hope these strict curbs will finally clear the toxic haze.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What is the 50% work-from-home rule in Delhi?

All government and private offices in Delhi must operate with only 50% of staff physically present. The other half must work from home. Essential emergency services are exempt from this order.

Which vehicles are banned in Delhi now?

All diesel vehicles that are not BS-VI compliant are banned from entering Delhi. Additionally, any vehicle without a valid Pollution Under Control certificate will be denied fuel at petrol pumps.

How bad is Delhi’s air quality right now?

On Thursday morning, Delhi’s overall AQI was in the “very poor” category. However, several key monitoring stations, including Anand Vihar and Jahangirpuri, still recorded “severe” levels.

Are all construction activities stopped?

Yes, all public and private construction projects remain banned under GRAP Stage 3 and 4 restrictions. This has been in effect for over two weeks to curb dust pollution.

What happens if my office doesn’t follow the WFH order?

The government has stated that action will be taken against offices failing to comply with the 50% work-from-home directive. Specific penalties are expected to be enforced by monitoring teams.