The Delhi government has ordered all government and private offices in the national capital to operate with only 50 per cent of their staff physically present at workplaces. The rest of the employees must work from home to help reduce pollution and protect public health.
The new rule comes into force from December 18, 2025, as Delhi’s air quality remains in the ‘very poor’ to ‘severe plus’ range. Authorities say the order is part of a wider set of emergency anti-pollution measures under Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).
Officials have also warned that offices failing to follow the directive could face fines or penalties. The aim is to reduce commuting and vehicle emissions, which are major contributors to the city’s hazardous smog.
Some essential services such as hospitals, police, public transport, electricity, and water supply are exempt from the rule so that critical work can continue without interruption.
This step is part of a broader strategy that also includes vehicle restrictions, bans on non-BS VI vehicles, and controls on fuel sales to vehicles without valid pollution certificates. The government is also offering financial support of ₹10,000 to registered construction workers who are unable to work due to the pollution control measures.
Air pollution levels have soared in the capital this week, with visibility dropping sharply and weather conditions worsening the smog. The government hopes that reducing office attendance will help lower emissions and improve air quality in the coming days.