Haryana asks firms to implement WFH, staggered timings in Gurugram
What's the story
The Haryana government has urged private firms to implement work-from-home (WFH) policies and staggered office timings. The move aims to reduce traffic congestion, save fuel, and cut energy consumption in Gurugram, one of India's largest corporate hubs, Moneycontrol reported. The state has asked its industries department to work with industry bodies such as Nasscom (National Association of Software and Service Companies), CII (Confederation of Indian Industries), and FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry) for this initiative.
Traffic congestion
Traffic snarls during peak hours
Gurugram, also known as the Millennium City, witnesses severe traffic snarls during peak hours due to the daily commutes of nearly five lakh vehicles from Delhi and Faridabad. The state government has already implemented austerity measures in its departments, such as limiting official vehicle use and cutting fuel consumption. Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi issued an advisory citing global supply chain challenges impacting fuel prices.
Support for WFH
Industry leaders and employees welcome the proposal
Industry leaders have welcomed the government's proposal. Nitin Sahini, President of Foqal Analytics, called it practical and beneficial, as per The Economic Times. He emphasized that knowledge-driven industries can maintain productivity with hybrid and remote work models. Employees also supported this initiative, citing how businesses functioned effectively during the COVID-19 pandemic with remote working arrangements.
Fiscal measures
Finance department to reduce petroleum expenditure by 20%
On its part, the Haryana government has asked its finance department to reduce petroleum-related expenditure by 20% till September. It also directed departments to report a minimum 10% reduction in vehicle usage each month. Citizens have been advised to use public transport, carpooling, and switch to electric vehicles as part of this initiative.
Sustainable living
Citizens urged to participate in 'Mera Bharat, Mera Yogdan' campaign
The Haryana government has also called on citizens to participate in the "Mera Bharat, Mera Yogdan (My India, My Contribution)" campaign. This campaign encourages sustainable living and resource conservation, such as using public transport, carpooling, and switching to electric vehicles, while avoiding unnecessary foreign travel and large gatherings. The directives have been issued for immediate implementation across all administrative departments and other bodies in Haryana.