Dense fog and poor air quality disrupt flight operations in Delhi

Dense fog gripped Delhi on Monday morning, sharply reducing visibility to near zero and disrupting normal life across the national capital. 

Early-morning traffic slowed as drivers struggled to navigate through the thick fog, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an orange alert and urge residents to exercise caution. Night temperatures dipped to 8.2 degrees Celsius, the IMD said.

The hazardous conditions led to disruptions in flight operations at Delhi airport. Authorities issued an advisory warning passenger of possible delays due to dense fog and asked them to check flight status with airlines before heading to the airport. IndiGo also urged flyers to monitor updates through its website and mobile app.

Delhi's air quality worsened

The weather conditions worsened Delhi’s already critical air quality. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) slipped into the ‘Severe Plus’ category, breaching the 456 mark. Ashok Vihar recorded an alarming AQI of 500 in the early hours. Visuals from Anand Vihar and Akshardham showed dense toxic smog, with AQI levels around 493, while Dwarka recorded 469, both falling under the ‘Severe’ category. Neighbouring Noida also reported grim conditions, with an AQI of 454, classified as ‘Severe Plus’.

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Health experts warned of serious risks from prolonged exposure to polluted air, advising people to avoid outdoor activities, especially in the morning, and to wear masks if stepping out is unavoidable.