Gurugram Implements 50% Work-from-Home Policy as Air Quality Deteriorates

As air pollution worsens in Gurugram, the District Administration has taken urgent action to mitigate the health impacts. Deputy Commissioner Ajay Kumar on Tuesday announced that private institutions and multinational firms in the district will implement a 50 percent work-from-home policy starting Wednesday (November 20) — a measure aimed at reducing traffic and emissions, in line with the Stage IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for “Severe+” air quality (AQI over 450).

Additionally, Anganwadi Centres will remain open, with workers continuing to deliver immunization services and distribute nutrition to beneficiaries at their doorsteps. The Administration also directed the suspension of physical attendance at Anganwadi Centres for children from November 19 to November 23, 2024, due to the severe air quality.

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) in NCR has mandated these steps to prevent further deterioration of air quality. The Gwal Pahari weather station in Gurugram recorded an AQI of 494 on Tuesday, with an average of 468, classified as “severe”. This alarming pollution level has led both the government and private sectors to prioritize employee health and take necessary precautions.