Haryana wants companies to start WFH
Live Events as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Addas a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our (You
Live Events as a Reliable and Trusted News Source Addas a Reliable and Trusted News Source Add Now! (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel The Haryana government has urged private companies to adopt work-from-home (WFH) policies and staggered office schedules as part of a wider effort to reduce traffic congestion, fuel consumption, and energy use. The proposal comes amid concerns over rising fuel prices and global supply chain disruptions that are putting pressure on the economy.The initiative is expected to have a major impact on Gurgaon, one of India's largest corporate hubs, where daily office commutes contribute significantly to traffic jams across the city and the Capital Region (NCR). The Millennium City, which hosts the offices of several Fortune 500 firms and leading Indian companies, attracts nearly five lakh vehicles daily from Delhi, Faridabad and other NCR cities. With thousands of employees commuting to offices every day, the city routinely faces severe traffic snarls during rush hours.According to a report of the Times of India, the state has directed its industries department to work closely with leading industry associations, including Nasscom, CII, and FICCI to implement the plan.
Companies are being encouraged to allow employees to work remotely wherever possible and introduce flexible office timings to spread out peak-hour traffic.The move is an extension of austerity measures already introduced across government departments. These measures include limiting official vehicle usage, reducing fuel consumption, and promoting virtual meetings instead of physical gatherings.Meanwhile, an advisory has been issued by Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, who cited ongoing global supply chain challenges linked to the conflict in West Asia. The disruptions have pushed up fuel prices and increased pressure on imports, prompting the government to explore ways to conserve resources.Industry leaders have largely welcomed the proposal. Nitin Sahini, President of Foqal Analytics, described the government's approach as practical and beneficial.He noted that knowledge-driven industries have already demonstrated that hybrid and remote work models can maintain productivity and client service standards while reducing travel time and operational costs. He added that lower fuel consumption, reduced congestion, and improved air quality are among the key benefits.Sahini acknowledged that implementation may vary across sectors but said organizations capable of offering flexible work arrangements should seriously consider doing so.Employees have also voiced support for the initiative.
The BriefWire