The government in Haryana, particularly in Gurugram, which is a significant corporate and industrial hub, has introduced a temporary work-from-home directive for corporate offices and private institutions. This move comes as the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi-NCR has deteriorated to the 'severe plus' category, necessitating urgent actions to address the escalating pollution levels. Companies like Coca-Cola and Nestlé have already begun offering hybrid work options to their employees in response to the worsening air quality.
The directive was issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Gurugram, calling for an immediate implementation of a 50% work-from-home policy. This initiative is in line with the Commission for Air Quality Management's (CAQM’s) Stage IV Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes measures to enhance air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR). When air pollution levels reach the 'severe' category, surpassing an AQI of 400, Stage IV GRAP is activated, leading to stringent actions like work-from-home policies, suspension of physical classes in schools, reduced construction activities contributing to dust pollution, and stricter checks on vehicle emissions.
The policy, effective from November 20, mandates that all corporate offices ensure only half of their staff is present physically at the workplace, with the rest working remotely. In a similar vein, the Delhi administration has advised schools and government offices to adopt precautionary measures to address the hazardous pollution levels. In a broader context, Indian businesses are increasingly focusing on combating air pollution, with a recent study revealing that 44.3% of firms in the country have implemented strategies to reduce their environmental impact. This research underscores the efforts being made by larger and more established businesses to lead pollution control initiatives through investments in research and development, shareholder equity, and quality certifications.