New Delhi: Delhi and surrounding areas woke up to another day of dense smog on Sunday as air pollution remained in the severe category in many parts of the city. Thick haze reduced visibility across the capital leading to major disruption in air and rail travel and causing serious health concerns for residents.
Air quality index levels crossed 400 at several monitoring stations including Anand Vihar Rohini and ITO. Experts said the combination of cold temperatures calm winds and dense fog has trapped pollutants close to the ground leaving little chance of quick improvement. Authorities have warned that poor air conditions are likely to continue for the next two to three days.
Flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport were badly affected due to low visibility during early morning hours. More than 100 flights were cancelled while several others were delayed. Passengers were advised to check flight status before leaving for the airport. Train services were also impacted with delays reported on multiple routes.
The India Meteorological Department said dense to very dense fog conditions prevailed in parts of Delhi and the NCR region. An alert remains in place as visibility dropped to very low levels in many areas especially during the night and early morning.
Hospitals across the city reported an increase in patients complaining of breathing problems eye irritation and throat discomfort. Doctors advised children elderly people and those with respiratory illnesses to stay indoors and avoid outdoor physical activity as much as possible.
Authorities have enforced strict pollution control measures under the graded response action plan. These include restrictions on certain vehicles curbs on construction activity and increased monitoring of industrial emissions. Citizens have been urged to cooperate with guidelines and limit exposure to polluted air.
With no immediate relief in sight residents continue to struggle through one of the harshest phases of the winter smog season raising renewed concerns about long term solutions to Delhi’s air pollution crisis.