Delhi Government Latest Announcements: Policies Trending on Twitter
As Delhi battles severe smog, the government has activated GRAP-IV, imposing 50% work-from-home rules, new vehicle bans, and financial aid for workers. Here's a complete breakdown of the latest emergency measures and the public reaction.
In response to one of the worst air pollution crises this season, the Delhi government has announced a sweeping set of emergency measures that have become the primary topic of discussion on Twitter and national news platforms. The capital is currently under Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), the strictest level of anti-pollution curbs, following days of hazardous air quality.
Table of Contents
• The Pollution Crisis: A "Gas Chamber" Situation
• Pollution Control: New Restrictions & GRAP-IV Explained
• Transport & Vehicle Rules: Major Bans and Public Backlash
• School & Education Updates: Shift to Online Learning
• Economic & Worker Support: Financial Aid Announced
• Public Reaction & Health Advisory
The Pollution Crisis: A "Gas Chamber" Situation
Delhi's air quality deteriorated sharply over the weekend, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hitting 498 in the 'severe plus' category on December 15. On Monday, December 16, a dense toxic smog blanketed the city, with average AQI readings around 471—more than 30 times the World Health Organization's safe limit. Healthcare professionals described the city as a "gas chamber," with hospitals reporting an influx of patients with breathing difficulties and eye irritation. The crisis led to significant travel disruption, including the cancellation of over 40 flights and delays for dozens of trains.
Pollution Control Policies
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked GRAP-IV across the National Capital Region (NCR). The key components of this emergency plan include:
- Complete Ban on Construction and Demolition: All construction activity has been halted across Delhi and the NCR. A separate ban prohibits trucks from bringing construction material into the capital.
- Work-From-Home Mandate: In a major move, the Delhi government has mandated that all government and private offices operate at 50% capacity. Starting December 18, half of all staff must work from home. Essential services like healthcare, police, public transport, and electricity are exempt from this rule.
- PUC Certificate Enforcement: In a strict new directive, vehicles without a valid Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate will be denied fuel at all petrol pumps in Delhi.
Transport & Vehicle Rules
The most controversial announcement has been a sweeping new restriction on vehicle entry. Starting Thursday, December 19, the Delhi government will prohibit the entry of all non-BS VI vehicles from outside its borders. This is a significant escalation from the GRAP-III rule, which only restricted BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles.
The move has triggered a wave of anxiety and criticism. Officials estimate it will impact over 200,000 vehicles in Gurgaon, 400,000 in Noida, and 550,000 in Ghaziabad alone. Commuters have slammed the decision as "abrupt" and "impractical," arguing that it obstructs the free movement of people in the integrated NCR region where lakhs cross borders daily for work. Many have criticized the lack of adequate public transport alternatives, warning of extra pressure on the already overloaded Delhi Metro.
School & Education Updates
To protect children's health, schools have been directed to adopt a hybrid model of learning. Classes for students in grades 6 to 9 will be conducted in a combination of physical and online modes. For younger children, schools have shifted entirely to online classes. The Supreme Court of India has also issued a circular advising lawyers and litigants to appear for hearings virtually.
Economic & Worker Support
Acknowledging the economic impact of the construction ban, the Delhi government announced a support package for daily wage workers. Registered construction workers who are unable to work due to the halt in activity will receive a one-time financial assistance of Rs. 10,000. This amount will be transferred directly to their bank accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Public Reaction & Health Advisory
The announcements have sparked massive debate on social media, with hashtags related to Delhi pollution trending. While some support the strict measures, a common public sentiment, as echoed by residents, is frustration with what is seen as a pattern of "quick fixes" instead of addressing root causes like crop burning and industrial emissions. Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa stated that "no government can eradicate pollution from the capital within nine to ten months," while also blaming previous administrations for inaction.
Authorities have issued urgent health advisories, urging all residents, especially children, the elderly, and those with heart or lung conditions, to avoid outdoor activities and wear N95 masks if going outside is unavoidable.
The government has stated these measures will be in force until air quality shows sustained improvement. Citizens are advised to monitor official channels for updates on restrictions and health guidelines.
