Delhi Unveils Permanent Winter Pollution Curbs
Delhi will enforce a permanent winter pollution-control framework from November 1, introducing doubled parking fees, 50% work-from-home requirements, construction restrictions and tougher vehicle rules to tackle the capital’s recurring seasonal air pollution.
Delhi Orders 50% Work From Home During Winter
Under the Winter Pollution Action Plan, government and private establishments will operate with only 50% of employees physically present during the pollution-sensitive period, while the remaining staff work remotely.
Office timings will also be staggered to reduce peak-hour traffic. Delhi government offices will operate from 10 am to 6.30 pm, while Municipal Corporation of Delhi offices will function from 8.30 am to 5 pm.
Essential and emergency services will be exempt from the restrictions.
Delhi Parking Fees to Double From November 1
Parking charges at authorised facilities across Delhi will be doubled from November 1 to February 28 every year to discourage private vehicle use.
Delhi Metro-operated parking facilities will remain exempt, as authorities seek to encourage greater use of public transport.
The plan also includes stricter enforcement of Pollution Under Control certificates, with vehicles lacking valid certification facing restrictions on fuel purchases.
Construction Curbs Target Winter Pollution
Dust-generating demolition and outdoor construction work will face restrictions from November 1 to January 31.
A stricter phase will apply from December 10 to January 20, when construction and demolition activities will be completely prohibited except for specified essential projects.
The framework is designed to replace repeatedly changing seasonal restrictions with a predictable annual system aimed at reducing emissions from vehicles, construction and other major pollution sources.
