The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has directed government and private offices in Delhi and five National Capital Region (NCR) districts to implement a 50% work-from-home arrangement from November 5 to 20, 2026, as authorities prepare for the region’s annual winter pollution crisis.
The order, issued on October 30, also restricts dust-generating demolition and outdoor construction activities across the entire NCR during the same period. The measures are intended to reduce emissions before air pollution typically reaches its most dangerous levels in November.
Which Offices Must Follow the Work-From-Home Order?
The directive applies to government and private offices in Delhi, Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar, which includes Noida.
Under the arrangement, up to 50% of employees can attend their workplaces physically, while the remaining staff must work from home.
Industrial establishments and essential services where remote working is not feasible have been exempted.
The order is expected to affect thousands of employees across the region, particularly those working in corporate offices, IT companies and government departments.
Construction and Demolition Activities Restricted Across NCR
The CAQM has directed authorities to restrict dust-generating demolition and outdoor construction work throughout the National Capital Region from November 5 to 20.
The restrictions also cover major linear infrastructure projects, including highways, roads, flyovers, overbridges, power transmission lines, pipelines and telecommunications infrastructure.
However, exemptions have been provided for essential projects related to railways, metro services, airports, inter-state bus terminals, hospitals, water supply and sanitation. National security, defence-related activities and projects of national importance are also exempt.
The restrictions are aimed at reducing construction dust, which contributes significantly to the region’s pollution levels.
Why Has CAQM Introduced the Measures in November?
According to the Commission, an analysis of daily Air Quality Index (AQI) data between 2018 and 2025 showed a recurring pattern of elevated pollution levels during early and mid-November.
During this period, emissions from local sources combine with seasonal agricultural residue burning, biomass burning and other pollution sources.
Unfavourable weather conditions, including low wind speeds and limited vertical mixing of air, further prevent pollutants from dispersing. Delhi has recorded Severe and Severe+ AQI levels on certain days during previous November pollution episodes.
The CAQM said the measures were preventive and intended to reduce emissions before pollutants accumulate in the atmosphere.
Will the Restrictions Improve Delhi’s Air Quality?
The restrictions are part of a wider effort to tackle winter pollution in Delhi-NCR. However, their effectiveness will depend on implementation, compliance and pollution levels across the region.
Authorities have directed state governments and local administrations to ensure that the measures are followed. The restrictions will remain in force until November 20, after which further action will depend on the pollution situation and applicable government orders.
The latest directive highlights the importance of early intervention in controlling Delhi-NCR’s seasonal air pollution, rather than waiting for air quality to deteriorate to emergency levels.