Delhi Govt Revises Office Hours As Air Pollution Worsens; Check New Timings

Delhi AQI Level: As pollution levels continue to soar in the capital region, Lieutenant Governor (LG) VK Saxena has taken a proactive step by revising the working hours for government and municipal offices in the city. This change is a response to the growing concern over air quality and the expected spike in pollution during the winter season.

Effective immediately, all Delhi Municipal Corporation (DMC) offices will operate from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, while Delhi Government offices will follow new timings from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM. This decision is set to remain in place until February 25 as part of the city's efforts to manage the air pollution crisis.

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This adjustment in working hours is being implemented under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), a set of emergency measures designed to reduce pollution levels in Delhi. The city is currently facing some of its worst air quality in years, with toxic smog blanketing the NCR region.

In view of the severe air pollution levels in Delhi during the winter months, and as part of the measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), Delhi LG has directed the implementation of staggered office timings. The following office timings shall be effective in all… pic.twitter.com/QIyep9vgkb

— ANI (@ANI) November 18, 2024

Earlier, on Monday, the Supreme Court directed Delhi and all governments in the National Capital Region (NCR) to strictly implement Stage IV of the GRAP anti-pollution measures, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the "severe" category.

On Monday, Delhi's air quality hit dangerous levels, with AQI values surpassing the 1,500 mark in some places. This is considered a "severe-plus" condition, making it crucial for authorities to implement emergency measures, including adjusting work hours, halting construction, and restricting vehicle movements prompting authorities to implement Stage IV of the GRAP.

The smog worsened between Sunday and Monday in Delhi NCR, leaving residents struggling with suffocating air and limited visibility. In response to the hazardous air quality, the Delhi International Airport Ltd issued a low-visibility advisory, informing passengers that while flight operations remain normal, they should stay updated on any changes.

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Additionally, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi, the former education minister, announced the suspension of physical classes for students in all grades except Classes 10 and 12. This decision aligns with the implementation of GRAP Stage IV, which includes a series of emergency measures such as halting construction activities, imposing stricter vehicle restrictions, and encouraging work-from-home protocols in Delhi-NCR.

In conclusion, as the capital region struggles with one of the worst air pollution episodes in recent history, these immediate steps are much required.