Delhi's Lieutenant-Governor, VK Saxena, on Monday issued an order directing the implementation of staggered office timings as part of measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to combat severe air pollution during the winter months. The new timings will be effective until 28th February 2025 and will apply to all offices under the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi (GNCTD) and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).
According to the order, offices under the MCD will operate from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, while offices under GNCTD will function from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM. The official statement released on November 18 read, "In view of the severe air pollution levels in Delhi during the winter months, and as part of the measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), the Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor of Delhi has directed the implementation of staggered office timings for offices under the Government of NCT of Delhi and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi."
ALSO READ | Delhi: 15 Flights Diverted, Over 100 Delayed At IGI Airport Amid Smog-Induced Poor Visibility
Delhi Pollution: LG VK Saxena Launches DDA's Anti-Smog Misting Drive In Dwarka
With Delhi grappling with severe air pollution, LG VK Saxena on Monday inaugurated the Delhi Development Authority’s (DDA) anti-smog misting drive, overseeing a trial run in Dwarka. Emphasising the need for innovative approaches, Saxena said, "In light of the severe air quality index readings in Delhi, it is crucial that we adopt innovative and sustainable measures to protect the health and well-being of our residents", news agency IANS reported.
He further noted, "This anti-smog misting system is a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to mitigate pollution and create a healthier living environment for all."
The project is initially being implemented in the DDA-controlled Dwarka area, with Saxena indicating that, if successful, he would recommend its expansion across the city to the Delhi government.
The trial run comes amid political sparring over Delhi’s air quality. Chief Minister Atishi criticised the Central government for its alleged inaction, while the Opposition BJP accused the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of failing to implement effective pollution control measures.
Described as Delhi’s first static anti-smog drive, this initiative highlights the DDA's focus on advanced environmental solutions. The project has been rolled out along a 550-metre stretch on Road No. 224, from the Road No. 201-224 junction to Sector 6 Marg. Fourteen electric poles, each equipped with 30 misting nozzles positioned at a height of three metres, have been installed to optimise pollutant reduction and improve air quality.
The system is supported by four large water tanks, each with a capacity of 5,000 litres, supplying RO-treated water to ensure the purity and effectiveness of the mist. Additionally, wastewater from the misting operations will be repurposed for roadside plantation, promoting greenery and environmental sustainability in the area.
The DDA has engaged the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) to conduct a comprehensive study on the misting system's impact on air quality. The findings will help inform future strategies and potential expansion of this technology throughout the city.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court also intervened on Monday, directing Delhi and all governments in the National Capital Region (NCR) to strictly implement Stage IV anti-pollution measures under GRAP as the Air Quality Index (AQI) remains in the "severe" category. GRAP is a set of anti-air pollution measures that are enforced according to the severity of the situation. Stage III and IV restrictions are implemented when the air quality reaches severe levels.