Delhi Battles Winter Smog Crisis with New Office Timings, Parking Fee Hike and Strict Vehicle Rules

New Delhi: The government has decided to adjust office working hours to reduce heavy traffic during peak time. When everyone leaves office around the same hour, the roads get jammed and pollution rises. With different departments following slightly different timings, the vehicle load can spread throughout the day. This means lesser congestion and smoother traffic flow. The goal is to reduce idle vehicles stuck in slow-moving queues. Less traffic also means less fuel burning. This can help decrease daily pollution levels in the city.

What About Parking Fee Hike?

The parking fees in the New Delhi area have been doubled as a part of pollution control steps. Higher parking charges will discourage unnecessary car usage. People may shift to metro, bus or shared vehicles instead of taking personal cars every day. This helps reduce the number of vehicles on roads. Two-wheelers and four-wheelers will now pay more per hour in designated areas. The new rule will stay in place until the pollution emergency phase ends. The idea is simple: fewer vehicles, cleaner air.

Why Stop Certain Vehicles?

The government has restricted the entry of older commercial vehicles that do not meet BS-IV emission standards. Older vehicles release more smoke and harmful pollutants into the air. By stopping them from entering the city, pollution from traffic can be reduced. This rule applies mainly to goods carriers coming from outside Delhi. Only vehicles that meet newer emission norms will be allowed. This measure targets the most polluting category of vehicles. Cleaner vehicles mean lower harmful emissions.

How Bad is the Air Right Now?

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi has crossed the ‘very poor’ category, reaching levels above 350 in several areas. Some locations like Bawana even recorded numbers above 400. When AQI crosses 300, it becomes dangerous for people with breathing issues. Above 400 is harmful for almost everyone. The city often sees smog, especially in the early morning and late evening. Winter weather traps pollution close to the ground. This is why the situation gets worse during this season.

Are Construction Sites Monitored?

Dust from construction sites adds to the pollution in the air. The government has instructed strict monitoring at construction locations. Workers must cover debris, use sprinklers and follow dust control steps. If any site is found breaking rules, fines and work stoppage may follow. The goal is to reduce dust clouds rising into the city air. Construction companies now have to follow environment guidelines carefully. Lower dust means cleaner surroundings.

Are People Using Public Transport More?

The government is encouraging citizens to use buses and metro services instead of private vehicles. Public transport creates less pollution per person compared to cars. More buses are being added to routes, especially during rush hours. Metro frequency may also increase to handle the extra crowd. If more people shift to shared transport, air quality can improve slowly. This is a long-term behavioural change. Awareness campaigns aim to remind people that every step counts.

Will These Steps Work Soon?

These measures are meant to reduce pollution gradually, not instantly. Weather conditions, festival smoke and external pollution sources also affect Delhi’s air. However, controlling traffic and vehicle smoke can make a visible difference. People need to cooperate by reducing private vehicle use, avoiding burning waste and following pollution advisories. Pollution control is a shared responsibility. With patience and consistent action, the air can improve over time.