New Delhi: With pollution levels in Delhi-NCR continuing to remain in the “severe plus” category and raising concerns over public health, the administration in Gurugram has announced a work-from-home policy for all private institutions and corporate offices starting November 20, 2024.

The move comes as part of the efforts to combat the worsening air quality and support measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP).

In a notification issued by the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Gurugram, it was stated that all private offices and institutions in the city are required to implement a 50% work-from-home policy starting from November 20, until further notice. Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar emphasized the importance of this measure in improving air quality and ensuring the health and safety of residents. “This is crucial in combating ‘Severe+’ air quality levels and supporting the GRAP measures,” he said.

The decision follows a similar action taken on Monday when Kumar ordered the closure of all schools up to Class 5 across urban and rural areas of the city, effective from November 19. The closure aims to protect children’s health, as pollution levels in parts of Gurugram had reached the “severe” category, with others falling into the “very poor” range.

“For students above Class 5, online classes will be conducted in place of physical sessions at all government and private schools,” the order noted, ensuring that education continues despite the hazardous air conditions.

Meanwhile, the Delhi government also took stringent measures on Monday, implementing Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in response to the persistent “severe plus” pollution levels. As part of this, the Delhi government imposed a ban on BS-IV or older diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles registered in Delhi. Additionally, all trucks and light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi will be barred from entering the city, except for those carrying essential goods or services.