G20 Summit Delhi: As Delhi gears up for the G20 Summit scheduled on September 9 and 10, the capital and its neighbouring cities, Noida and Gurugram, are witnessing a shift in regular working conditions, with numerous offices opting for flexible work schedules.
Heavyweight Attendees
This prestigious international conference will see participation from 29 heads of state, top European Union officials, invited guest nations, and leaders of 14 international organizations. Among the attendees are global stalwarts such as US President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, French President Emmanuel Macron, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol.
Work-from-Home Arrangements
Understanding the logistical challenges and security implications of the event, several corporate entities across Delhi NCR are offering flexible working options to their employees.
An associate from Deloitte expressed relief at this decision, citing the growing number of security checkpoints that have sprouted across the city as the event draws closer. Another employee from KPMG, who commutes between Pitampura and Gurgaon, remarked on the increasing commute times and lauded the company’s decision to offer work-from-home options.
Commercial Establishments to Close
But it’s not just corporate entities that are affected. Commercial establishments, including shops, will remain closed for three days. Ravinder, a technician from Nehru Place Market, revealed that the entire market would remain closed due to the G20 Summit.
Official Notification
The Delhi Government has issued an official notice, proclaiming a public holiday from September 8 to 10 for specific establishments. The notification, dated 24/08/2023, mandates all commercial and business establishments in the New Delhi District of NCT of Delhi to remain closed during these dates, and employers are instructed to grant paid holidays to their workers.
Conclusion
The G20 Summit, given its significance on the global stage, requires intensive preparations to ensure the safety and smooth functioning of the event. With world leaders in attendance, Delhi is leaving no stone unturned to guarantee their security. The resulting changes in the daily lives of its residents — from extended commute times to work-from-home provisions — are seen as necessary disruptions for what is undeniably one of the most critical events in the international diplomatic calendar.
