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Delhi Tightens Curbs: 50% Work From Home Mandated
23 Nov
Summary
- Delhi mandates 50% remote work for offices, advancing pollution control measures.
- Over 1,200 inspections led to 200+ notices and 50 closure orders.
- Medical experts warn of irreversible lung damage from long-term pollution exposure.
The Commission for Air Quality Management has advanced pollution control measures in Delhi NCR, including a directive for 50% work from home for government and private offices. This escalation, now at Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan, began on November 11. Stricter enforcement has led to over 1,200 inspections of construction and industrial sites, resulting in more than 200 show cause notices and 50 closure orders.
Despite these measures, air quality in surrounding areas like Gurugram remains in the 'poor' category, with residents reporting persistent waste burning violations. Visibility has been significantly reduced due to smog and persistent dry weather conditions, with forecasts indicating little immediate improvement. Authorities are increasing patrols and issuing penalties to builders and contractors for violations.
Medical experts highlight the severe long-term health consequences of prolonged exposure to poor air quality. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is linked to irreversible lung damage, chronic inflammation, and an increased risk of lung cancer and other severe respiratory illnesses. The overall mortality rate from cancer also rises with increased PM2.5 exposure.
