Delhi Mandates Heaters for Staff to Combat Open Burning, Winter Pollution

• Delhi government directs RWAs, institutions, and establishments to provide heating arrangements for staff.
• Measure aims to prevent security, sanitation, and other frontline staff from burning biomass and waste for warmth.
• Mandates electric heaters or approved fuels; violations will incur penalties under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
• Environment and Forest Department issued the order; Department of Revenue to ensure city-wide implementation.
• Open burning significantly contributes to Delhi's severe winter air pollution, with PM10 and PM2.5 levels breaching standards.

Why It Matters: Delhi mandates staff heating to curb open burning and improve winter air quality, with strict penalties for non-compliance.