Delhi CM Atishi announces new timings for government offices to combat pollution and traffic – India News

Air pollution in Delhi, government offices new timings: In a strategic move to address this pollution and traffic congestion, Delhi Prime Minister Atishi announced revised working hours for government offices on Friday. Under the new schemes, it aims to reduce vehicular traffic during peak hours and improve air quality in the national capital. Central government offices start from 9:00 am and last until 5:30 pm. Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) offices are open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM and Delhi government offices are open from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM, according to a statement released by Atishi on X.

Severe air quality sounds alarms

The decision has been taken as air quality in Delhi has deteriorated to ‘severe’ category and recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 411 on Friday. The national capital has been shrouded in smog for three days in a row, with the AQI as of Friday morning increasing to 420, according to SAFAR. The post-Diwali celebrations have already pushed the AQI into the ‘very poor’ category, but the latest readings have further improved the situation deteriorated further.

A dense blanket of smog covers areas like AIIMS and Akshardham, according to images captured by the drones. Popular areas like Anand Vihar and Kartavya Path also reported AQIs of 441, further affecting visibility. Despite the severe conditions, residents continued with their daily activities, such as walking in the haze.

To control the situation, the Air Quality Management Commission (CAQM) has implemented GRAP phase 3 measures. Under this, construction and demolition activities will be halted, except for important government projects, and restrictions will be imposed on BS-III petrol and BS-IV. diesel vehicles. On the contrary, truck drivers in Delhi have expressed concern about the potential risk posed by these curbs. They think it will be difficult for them to repay their car loans and earn a living.

To control the air quality crisis, the Delhi government has decided to split office hours and implement GRAP measures. However, it remains a major challenge for the government to balance ecological needs and economic interests.

(With input from agencies)