Delhi has introduced a permanent winter pollution-control framework to deal with the capital’s severe air pollution during the colder months. Construction and demolition are restricted, parking charges are higher and office timings may be staggered and work-from-home arrangements are made.
The new measures will be implemented every year during the winter pollution season with the main framework going into effect from November 1 to February 28. The Delhi government introduced the framework in 2026 so that residents, businesses and government agencies have advance notice of the restrictions.
Ban on Dust-generating construction from November 1.
As the rules state, demolition work and open civil construction activities that result in dust will be prohibited from November 1 to January 31.
The most important and emergency projects may get exemptions. Some interior work (finishing work, plumbing and electrical work) could continue under prescribed dust control.
The government has also made dust-suppression measures such as anti-smog guns and mist systems mandatory at specified large buildings and construction sites.
Stricter Construction Curbs From December 10 to January 20
The restrictions become more and more severe in the period from December 10 to January 20, the winter pollution season is a particularly sensitive period.
During this time only essential government projects related to public utility or emergency needs can be operated. Vehicles carrying construction materials like sand, bricks, cement and debris can also be restricted from entering Delhi.
Therefore, construction agencies will have to plan projects ahead of the winter season.
Parking Charges to Double
As a matter of fact, parking charges at authorised parking facilities will be doubled from November 1 to February 28.
But parking facilities owned and managed by the DMRC (Delhi Metro Rail Corporation) are exempt from the higher charges. This is aimed at driving a shift in public transport and reducing vehicle emissions.
Staggered Office Timings
Delhi has also introduced different working hours for government offices during the winter pollution period.
MCD offices: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Delhi Government offices: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM
The staggered schedule is intended to spread out peak-hour traffic and reduce congestion.
50% Work From Home Arrangement
Another of the main features is that physical attendance in government and private offices is limited.
During the specified winter period, 50% of employees can work from the office while the rest work from home. And essential services, healthcare, emergency services, power, water supply and sanitation are not at risk.
The aim is to reduce daily commuting and vehicle emissions during the months when Delhi's air quality is generally poor.
What are the reasons why Delhi has introduced these measures?
The government has characterized the framework as a shift from reacting to pollution only after air quality worsens to taking preventive measures before winter begins.
The framework is also complementary to the revised Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) and complemented by the pollution control authorities and Supreme Court’s guidance.
