Keeping in mind the pollution levels in Delhi, a Virtual Attendance at Work and School (VAWS) plan has been proposed by National Institute of Science, Technology and Development Studies (NISTAD), in which employees, especially from IT sector, and also students, can work from home.

According to the VAWS plan, NISTAD, a laboratory of Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, has proposed that, one day in a week should be virtual attendance in school and work.

Speaking on the same, NISTAD’s director, P Goswami said, “Our proposal is that 2+1+2 working week in which the third day (Wednesday) will be a day of Virtual Attendance at Work and School (VAWS), with two regular working days before and after.”

“This would allow spike in air pollution to subside during mid-week. In addition to reducing air pollution, VAWS will have several other socio-economic benefits like energy saving at work/ school, reduction of travel related stress and health hazard, higher efficiency and improved quality life. VAWS is a viable alternative.”

Clarifying that he is not going against ‘Odd Even formula’, Goswami said, “I am not suggesting anything against Odd Even Formula, but I am only saying that restrictions have not worked in the past and the plan is more like a restriction and implementation is a problem.”

Taking out the examples of Bogota and Mexico cities, where people have circumvented an Odd Even like plan and bought two cars, Goswami said that, VAWS can be done with a government directive.

Answering to the question, whether the suggestions on the proposal, were sent to the Delhi Chief Minister or not, Goswami answered, “Yes, we have sent a copy to the Delhi Chief Minister, PMO and other concerned ministries.”

However, Goswami did not answer about the time, the proposal was sent to the CM.

On a pilot basis, the odd even formula, will come into force from January 1st to 15th and currently, Delhi government officials are working out a detailed plan to implement the Odd Even formula.
 
By Phani Ch