New Delhi, November 21 (IANS). The level of air pollution in the country’s capital Delhi is still in a very bad condition. However, a slight improvement has been registered in comparison to the last few days. At the same time, work from home has been implemented.
Under this, 50 percent employees have to come to government offices. Whereas, 50 percent of the employees will work from home. Due to all these arrangements as well as closure of schools, there was less traffic on the roads of Delhi on Thursday as compared to normal days. On many of the roads in Delhi where traffic jams are often seen, a mild and at times positive effect was seen at many places.
Meanwhile, the Central Government has also announced different working timings for its employees in Delhi. This step of the Central Government will further reduce the traffic on the roads, which will provide some relief from traffic jams and pollution. The Center has advised its government employees to do vehicle pooling to travel to and from office. Use public transportation if possible.
In view of the air pollution in Delhi, various ministries, departments and organizations of the Central Government have advised employees to adopt staggered timings for offices located in Delhi. Government offices will open from 9 am to 5.30 pm and from 10 am to 6.30 pm.
At the same time, Delhi government has already issued orders for 50 percent attendance of employees in government offices and 50 percent work from home. This process will be adopted in rotation for the employees.
In view of the dangerous level of air pollution in Delhi, Grape-4 is implemented. All schools and colleges of Delhi are closed due to air pollution. There is also a ban on operation of BS 3 petrol and BS 4 diesel LMVs (4 wheelers). 84 teams of transport department and 280 teams of traffic police have been deployed to enforce the ban. There is a fine of Rs 20,000 for violating these restrictions.
Delhi government says that public transport is being promoted to reduce pollution. For this, 106 shuttle bus service has been started. The metro train is making 60 additional trips. There is also a ban on construction work to prevent dust and air pollution.
To monitor this, the team of the concerned department is continuously inspecting. The time for mechanized cleaning of roads has been extended. 65 MRS machines are being operated by MCD for cleaning the roads. Now their timings have been increased from 6 am to 4 pm.
–IANS
GCB/ABM
