Delhi CM Atishi Implements Staggered Office Timings Amid ‘Severe’ Air Quality Crisis

In an effort to combat the worsening air quality in Delhi, Chief Minister Atishi has announced staggered working hours for government offices. This move is aimed at reducing traffic congestion and mitigating pollution as the city’s air quality remains in the “severe” category.

Delhi woke up on Friday, November 15, 2024, to GRAP Stage III restrictions following three consecutive days of “severe” air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) at 9 AM stood at 411, well within the “severe” range (AQI 400-500). The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has imposed these restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to manage pollution levels.

New Office Timings Announced

To help ease the impact of severe air pollution and reduce road congestion, the Delhi government has implemented the following staggered office timings:

• Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD): 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM
• Central Government offices: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
• Delhi Government offices: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM

This adjustment is part of a larger initiative to reduce emissions from traffic, which is a major contributor to the city’s deteriorating air quality.

Current Air Quality Situation

The air quality in Delhi has been exacerbated by thick fog and low visibility, which is contributing to the already hazardous pollution levels. In some areas, including Safdarjung, visibility has dropped to just 400 meters, making the situation more challenging for commuters and residents alike. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) also reported Delhi’s lowest minimum temperature of the season so far — 15.6°C, which is unusually high for this time of year.

GRAP Stage III Restrictions and Other Measures

As part of Stage III of the GRAP, Delhi is now under several restrictions to reduce pollution:

• Ban on non-essential construction and demolition activities.
• Closure of stone crushers and mining operations in Delhi-NCR.
• Prohibition on interstate buses from entering Delhi unless they are electric, CNG, or BS-VI compliant.

If the air quality deteriorates further, Stage IV restrictions may be implemented, including:

• A complete ban on construction and demolition activities.
• Suspension of mining-related activities.
• Transition to online classes for students up to Class V.
• Daily water sprinkling on major roads to reduce dust pollution.

These measures, including the staggered office hours and stricter restrictions on polluting activities, are part of a broader effort by the Delhi government to tackle the ongoing air quality crisis. With the AQI in the “severe” category, the situation remains critical, and residents are advised to take necessary precautions, such as avoiding outdoor activities and wearing masks.

Delhi’s government continues to monitor the air quality and is prepared to take additional steps if the situation worsens further.