Delhi will require half of all employees at government and private workplaces to work from home starting November 1, as part of a sweeping plan to curb winter air pollution. Parking fees at authorised sites will also double, except at Delhi Metro-run facilities.

The work-from-home rule and higher parking charges will stay in force through February 28, 2027. Office timings will be staggered: Municipal Corporation offices from 8:30 am to 5 pm, and Delhi government offices from 10 am to 6:30 pm. Essential services such as hospitals, public transport and sanitation are exempt.

The plan was finalised after a review by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav. Officials hope fewer commuters and less private-vehicle use will cut traffic emissions during the smog season.

Delhi, home to more than 30 million people, recorded the highest annual average PM2.5 among world capitals last year at 82.2 micrograms per cubic metre, according to IQAir. The WHO recommends an annual average of 5.