Gurgaon Pollution Crisis: companies implement work-from-home, government calls for immediate action

On November 19, Gurgaon’s Gwal Pahari weather station recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 494, with an average of 468 — both categorised as "severe."

As Gurgaon grapples with its annual pollution crisis, several multinational companies and local governments are adopting measures to mitigate its impact on employees and residents. With the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV now in effect, firms and state authorities in the National Capital Region (NCR) are rolling out steps to adapt to the deteriorating air quality, according to a report by The Indian Express.

On November 19, Gurgaon’s Gwal Pahari weather station recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 494, with an average of 468 — both categorised as "severe." This worsening air quality has pushed companies and governments alike to prioritize employee health and workplace adjustments.

Work-From-Home Policies Gain Momentum

In response to the pollution, NCR state governments have been advised to allow public, municipal, and private offices to operate at 50 percent capacity, with the remaining employees working from home. Several multinational corporations, including one of the "Big 4" consulting firms, have implemented hybrid systems to reduce exposure to pollution and traffic congestion, The Indian Express Report added.

A representative from the consulting firm noted that pollution has become "an annual issue," adding that traffic challenges between Gurgaon and Noida have prompted the company to establish a Noida office. "Flexibility at work has been key, with employees only coming in when projects require physical presence," they said.

E-commerce companies, too, are stepping up, reducing the number of rides during peak traffic hours to cut emissions and protect their delivery personnel from prolonged exposure to polluted air.

CSS Officers Demand Urgent Action

Highlighting the health hazards posed by Delhi's deteriorating air quality, the Central Secretariat Service (CSS) Forum has urged the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) to adopt urgent measures.

In a letter to the DoPT Secretary, the CSS Forum emphasized that poor air quality is hampering productivity, with employees reporting respiratory issues, eye irritation, fatigue, and discomfort. The forum proposed implementing work-from-home policies, staggered working hours, and equipping government offices with air purifiers to mitigate these effects.

"It has become imperative to ensure the well-being of all, particularly those engaged in government services," said a representative from the CSS Forum.

The association also called for the distribution of N95 masks and other protective equipment to employees, along with the promotion of carpooling, public transport use, and energy-efficient office operations.

A Collaborative Response

With air pollution now an annual crisis in the NCR, both corporations and government bodies are adapting to ensure employee safety and maintain productivity. As the region awaits long-term solutions, these short-term measures aim to offer some relief amid a public health emergency.