India, Dec. 17 -- Shifting offices to hybrid mode, a ban on vehicles carrying construction, and a mandatory PUC certificate are among the stricter measures announced by the Delhi government after the capital's Air Quality Index plummeted into the 'severe' category this week.

The fresh measures, taking effect on Thursday, are in addition to the GRAP-4 restrictions announced by Commission for Air Quality Management, after the city registered AQI in 'severe' category for three consecutive days since Saturday, December 13.

Delhi labour minister Kapil Mishra announced that all government and private institutions must switch to work from home from Thursday or face action. However, the rule carries several exceptions, including those for emerg...