In the Indian capital Delhi, half of the employees in both the public and private sectors are switching to work from home due to air pollution.

Axar.az reports that the mandatory decision will come into effect from December 18.

Labor Minister Kapil Mishra said that all public and private institutions in the capital must ensure that 50 percent of their employees switch to remote work. However, the decision does not apply to institutions providing essential services such as medical centers and emergency services. Strict action will be taken against institutions that do not comply with the rules.

The ministry believes that this step is aimed at reducing the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere from daily commutes and vehicles.