New Delhi: The Delhi government has announced new office timings for its departments and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) to help reduce traffic congestion and control air pollution during the winter months. The change will take effect from November 15, 2025, and continue until February 15, 2026.

Under the new schedule, government offices will function from 10:00 am to 6:30 pm, while MCD offices will open from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. The earlier timings had only a small gap between the two, which led to heavy traffic during rush hours and added to the city’s pollution levels.

Officials said the move aims to reduce vehicle emissions by spreading traffic more evenly throughout the day. The government hopes this will help lower the concentration of harmful particles in the air, especially during the morning and evening peaks.

The decision comes as Delhi continues to face very poor air quality, with the Air Quality Index recently crossing 330 in several parts of the city. The situation has worsened due to stagnant winds, dust from construction, and smoke from crop burning in nearby states.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the new office hours are part of a preemptive strategy to reduce pollution before it reaches dangerous levels. She also mentioned that the government is taking additional steps, including the use of anti-smog machines and restrictions on construction activities when pollution levels rise further.

Experts have welcomed the decision but cautioned that more coordinated measures are needed to achieve lasting results. They pointed out that traffic restrictions alone cannot solve the problem unless supported by cleaner public transport and strict control on industrial emissions.

The Delhi government said it will review the new office schedule at the end of the winter season to assess its impact on traffic and air quality. Meanwhile, residents have been urged to limit outdoor activities and take precautions, especially those with respiratory or heart problems.