As Delhi grapples with toxic air, netizens demand WFH arrangements

Delhi Chokes, again

Air pollution in Delhi at this time of the year is a seasonal phenomenon that occurs through no fault of its own, leaving the air in the national capital polluted, making the city unbreathable and barely livable.

Once again, even before winter sets in and dominates the metropolis, air pollution has taken over every corner of the city.

The air in Delhi has reached the hazardous category and continues to do so, with the AQI rating remaining above 500 in many parts of the city.

Delhi government implemented GRAP-IV

Due to these extreme developments, the Delhi government under the leadership of CM Atishi implemented GRAP Stage 4 in Delhi NCR. This will impose some restrictions in the capital.

“With the implementation of GRAP-4 from TMRW, physical classes will be closed for all students except classes 10 and 12. All schools will conduct online classes till further orders,” the Delhi CM said in a post on Twitter.

Here, a GRAP or hierarchical response action plan-IV is activated when AQI exceeds 450. Currently, in some parts of the city, it has gone above the 700 mark.

GRAP-IV requires strict vehicle restrictions including complete construction stoppage, school closures and odd-even schemes.

Netizens demand work from home

Amid these developments, many working professionals online also expressed their concerns. Many of them demanded work from home (WFH) arrangements in their offices.

Amidst the growing concerns, some netizens expressed their displeasure and took to Instagram to raise their demands.

“Delhi should work from home for at least a fortnight. Worsening pollution will take over Delhi,” posted an ex-user.

Another angry user commented, “It's time to shut down Delhi NCR. Let everyone work from home for a week or two.”

One user echoed the common sentiment and said, “I don't know why Delhi government is not considering cloud seeding? At least try something different, we are living in a gas chamber. At least for the next Order to work from home for 10 days. No proactive measures.”