Delhi-NCR orders office and construction curbs from November 5

The Commission for Air Quality Management has ordered temporary office-attendance limits and construction restrictions across parts of Delhi-NCR from November 5 to 20, as authorities seek to curb seasonal air pollution. Separately, the Central Pollution Control Board has directed regional regulators to begin closure proceedings against certain industries that have not documented steps to meet particulate-emission standards. Under the CAQM order issued October 30, government and private offices in Delhi and Gurugram, Faridabad, Sonipat, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar may have no more than 50% of staff attend in person during the 16-day period. Other employees are to work from home. Industrial establishments and essential services are exempt where the arrangement is not feasible. The order also restricts dust-generating demolition and outdoor construction across the National Capital Region. Exemptions cover specified projects involving railways, metro services, airports, interstate bus terminals, hospitals, water supply and sanitation, national security and defence, and projects of national importance. The restrictions also apply to linear public works, including highways,...