New Delhi: People across Delhi and the surrounding national capital region woke up on Friday to thick toxic smog, with air quality remaining in the very poor to severe category for the third consecutive day. Low visibility disrupted normal life and caused major delays and cancellations in air and rail travel.
According to official monitoring stations, the overall air quality index in many parts of the city hovered between 380 and 450, while some hotspots crossed the 500 mark, which is considered hazardous. Areas such as Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, Rohini and Wazirpur recorded the worst pollution levels early in the morning.
Dense smog and fog reduced visibility to near zero at several locations, severely affecting flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Airlines cancelled more than one hundred flights, while over three hundred others were delayed. Passengers were advised to check flight status before leaving for the airport. Train services in northern India were also affected, with many long distance trains running late due to poor visibility.
Authorities said calm winds, high humidity and cold winter temperatures have trapped pollutants close to the ground, worsening the smog situation. Emissions from vehicles, industries and construction activity, along with smoke from stubble burning in neighbouring states, have added to the pollution load.
In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management enforced the strictest stage of the Graded Response Action Plan. Measures include a ban on non essential construction work, restrictions on older polluting vehicles, promotion of work from home for offices and tighter checks on industrial emissions. Petrol pumps have also been directed to deny fuel to vehicles without valid pollution certificates.
Doctors warned that the current air quality can trigger breathing problems, eye irritation and throat infections, especially among children, elderly people and those with existing respiratory conditions. Residents have been advised to avoid outdoor activities, wear masks if stepping out and keep doors and windows closed as much as possible.
Weather officials said there is no immediate relief in sight, as wind speeds are expected to remain low over the next few days. A slight improvement may occur only if there is a change in weather conditions, including stronger winds or rainfall.
For now, the capital continues to struggle under a blanket of smog, with authorities urging people to remain cautious until air quality improves.