Delhi continues to choke under hazardous air conditions as the Air Quality Index (AQI) dips further into the “severe” category. With pollution levels posing serious health risks, authorities have ordered both government and private offices across the city to operate with 50% staff working from home until air quality improves.
The drastic decision comes after thick smog blanketed the national capital for the third consecutive day, reducing visibility and triggering a spike in respiratory complaints. Hospitals have reported a rise in cases of breathlessness, eye irritation, and aggravated asthma, especially among children and the elderly.
Officials from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) stated that emergency measures under GRAP Stage-IV are now being enforced. These include:
- Mandatory work-from-home for half the workforce in all non-essential offices
- Ban on construction and demolition activities
- Restrictions on diesel-heavy commercial vehicles
- Closure of schools for primary classes
- Intensified road sprinkling and anti-dust operations
Environmental experts warn that stagnant winds, low temperatures, and rising emissions from vehicles have created a harmful pollution trap over the city. Satellite images also show smoke from stubble burning in nearby states drifting towards Delhi, worsening the toxicity levels.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid outdoor workouts, use N95 masks, install air purifiers at home, and stay indoors as much as possible. Meanwhile, the Delhi government has appealed for cooperation and assured that strict monitoring is underway to control violators.
As the city struggles through one of its worst pollution phases this season, public health officials remain concerned about long-term exposure and its impact on millions of residents.
