The Delhi government has taken a major step to combat increasing air pollution. From now on, 50% of employees in Delhi's government and private offices will work from home. Over the past few days, Delhi's air quality has deteriorated so severely that the administration has taken this strict measure, considering public health. The Delhi government has also stated that offices or organisations that do not comply with this rule will have to pay hefty fines. This step has been taken primarily to reduce the number of vehicles on roads and control dust and pollution. Additionally, the Delhi government will provide financial assistance of ₹10,000 per person to construction workers who have lost their jobs due to the implementation of 'GRAP-4'.
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Capital shrouded in record pollution and dust
On December 15, Delhi's air quality had reached an extremely dangerous level. On December 12 morning, the pollution level or AQI was recorded at 498, which is extremely hazardous to health. For the past several days, Delhi's sky has been covered with dense fog. As a result, visibility had reduced so much that reports of major road accidents on the Yamuna Expressway have also emerged. Due to fog and smog, many flights have been cancelled and the schedules of several flights have also been changed. To handle the situation, the Delhi administration had to urgently implement 'GRAP-4' (GRAP IV).
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Government offers financial assistance
All types of construction work have been halted to curb Delhi's pollution. As a result, daily wage workers have fallen into trouble. Keeping this in mind, the Delhi government has also taken special measures. It has been stated that all construction workers whose names are registered with the government will provide financial assistance of ₹10,000 per person.
New restrictions on vehicle movement and petrol pumps
Strict rules have been implemented in the capital and its neighbouring cities, such as Noida, Gurugram and Faridabad, to curb pollution. All old vehicles below BS-IV (BS-IV) have been banned. Additionally, the administration has clearly stated that vehicles without valid Pollution Under Control certificates or PUC will not be provided fuel from petrol pumps. However, experts believe that pollution has reduced slightly since Tuesday as wind speed has increased somewhat.
