Delhi Govt Orders 50% WFH Under GRAP
Strict action warned as toxic air worsens; relief announced for affected construction workers
- 50% work-from-home mandatory for all govt, private offices from Thursday
- Order issued under GRAP III and GRAP IV emergency measures
- ₹10,000 compensation announced for registered construction workers
- Essential services exempted from WFH and construction ban
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 17th Dec: Amid worsening air quality in the national capital, the Delhi government on Wednesday issued a strict directive mandating 50 per cent work-from-home (WFH) for employees in all government and private institutions, effective from Thursday. The order has been enforced under emergency measures of GRAP III and GRAP IV to tackle hazardous pollution levels.
Announcing the decision at a press conference, Delhi Labour Minister Kapil Mishra warned of strict action against institutions that fail to comply. “From Thursday, all government and private institutions must ensure that 50 per cent of their workforce works from home. Any violation will invite action,” he said.
The minister also announced financial relief for construction workers affected by the suspension of construction activities under GRAP norms. Registered construction workers who have lost employment will be provided a compensation of ₹10,000. The relief will cover workers impacted during the 16 days of GRAP III implementation and will continue through the GRAP IV period.
Mishra clarified that essential services, including hospitals, fire services and pollution control agencies, have been exempted from the WFH mandate and the construction ban.
Targeting the Aam Aadmi Party, the minister accused it of politicising the pollution crisis. “Their chief minister used to leave the city during this season, while our chief minister is on the roads. They are indulging in dirty politics. The pollution problem is three decades old and cannot be fixed in five months,” he said.
The Delhi government has stepped up emergency measures as air quality remains in the severe category, posing serious health risks to residents across the capital.
