Delhi is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis, prompting the government to implement stricter measures to protect public health and mitigate environmental damage. As of today, December 13, 2025, authorities have ordered 50% of staff in both government and private offices to work from home. This directive is part of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV, which is activated when the Air Quality Index (AQI) crosses the 450 mark, indicating 'Severe+' air quality.
The decision to enforce work-from-home policies comes as Delhi's air quality continues to deteriorate. The AQI was recorded at 448 at 7 pm today. A day earlier, the 24-hour average AQI was 349, which falls into the "very poor" category. Forecasts suggest that the air quality will remain in the severe category on Sunday before improving to very poor on Monday.
This isn't the first time Delhi has mandated work-from-home due to hazardous air quality. A similar order was issued on November 24, 2025, when GRAP-3 measures were implemented. However, it was later revoked when the air quality improved. This time, the government is taking a more proactive approach by implementing Stage IV measures sooner, indicating a heightened concern for public health.
The work-from-home order applies to all government and private offices in Delhi. Essential services, including hospitals, public transportation, water, and sanitation, are exempt. District magistrates, Deputy Commissioners of Police, and local authorities are tasked with ensuring strict compliance with the directive. The government has also directed that classes for children until Class 5 will be held in hybrid mode, which includes both physical and online options.
Vehicular emissions are a major contributor to Delhi's pollution, accounting for over 21% of the city's pollution. By reducing the number of vehicles on the road through work-from-home mandates, authorities hope to curb the concentration of particulate matter in the air. Environmental experts have welcomed the decision, emphasizing the need to reduce vehicular emissions to improve air quality. The government is also considering incentivizing companies and departments that arrange transportation for their employees, such as providing buses.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has been modifying the GRAP plan, and now the Stage 4 measures are applied when the AQI reaches the Stage 3 range of 301-400. Similarly, Stage 3 measures have been shifted to Stage 2.
While these measures are intended to provide immediate relief, long-term solutions are necessary to address Delhi's air pollution crisis. These may include stricter emission standards for vehicles, promoting public transportation, investing in renewable energy sources, and addressing stubble burning in neighboring states.
