Smog chokes Delhi, disrupting flights and trains as visibility plummets
New Delhi: A heavy layer of fog has enveloped Delhi, causing severe air travel and train services disruption as visibility plummets to dangerously low levels. Several planes have been delayed or diverted, and train timetables have been severely disrupted, leaving thousands of commuters stuck. The heavy pollution, caused by seasonal changes, stubble burning in neighboring states, and industrial pollutants, has decreased visibility to near-zero levels in many parts of the city. Authorities have issued health recommendations, encouraging citizens to stay indoors and take the necessary precautions to avoid respiratory ailments.
Passengers traveling to other cities were observed waiting outside the stations. Meanwhile, Indira Gandhi International Airport issued a caution asking travelers to contact their airlines. Limited visibility procedures were enforced owing to deteriorating air quality. The caution recommends passengers stay in touch with airlines for information on flight statuses and potential modifications to their itinerary.
GRAP Stage 4 anti-pollution measures have been activated throughout Delhi-NCR due to the “severe” level of air pollution in Delhi. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) dropped to 481 at 6 a.m. on Monday, placing it in the “severe plus” category.
To help reduce pollution, Delhi’s chief minister, Atishi, suggested varying office hours. Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) offices will open at 8 a.m., Delhi government offices from 10 a.m. to 6.30 p.m., and central government offices from 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.
An AQI of 401 to 450 is defined as “severe,” while levels above 450 are designated as “severe plus,” suggesting considerable health risks for healthy people and more severe consequences for those with pre-existing diseases.
“The situation is critical,” stated a Delhi Airport Authority spokeswoman. “We are working to minimize delays and disruptions, but the low visibility is making it extremely challenging to operate flights safely.” Several airlines have reported cancellations and major delays, leaving customers upset and stuck at airports. The impact on train services is similarly significant. Many trains are operating behind time, and others have stopped entirely owing to poor visibility. Commuters report heavy congestion at stations as they look for alternate transit. The Delhi government has announced several steps to battle smog, including stronger enforcement of pollution control legislation and greater monitoring of industrial emissions.
