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New Delhi: Delhi remained shrouded in a suffocating smog, as air quality plummeted deeper into the 'severe' category on Monday morning, resulting in flight disruptions and reduced visibility. According to the Airport authorities, around 100 flights have been delayed or cancelled due to the low visibility amid huge smog in the national capital.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) of 456 at 6 am, following Sunday's reading of 461, marking it as the second-worst December air quality day on record.
Commutes and flights severely impacted
The smog has severely impacted travel. Delhi Airport issued an advisory to commuters, stating, "Due to dense fog, flight operations may experience disruptions. We are working closely with all stakeholders to minimise inconvenience to passengers. For the latest flight updates, passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines."
Major airlines like IndiGo and Spice Jet echoed these warnings, alerting passengers to potential flight delays and urging them to check their flight status before heading to the airport. The airline also advised travellers to factor in additional time for their journey to the airport, anticipating slower road traffic due to the hazardous visibility caused by the toxic haze.
"Due to bad weather (poor visibility) in Delhi (DEL), all departures/arrivals and their consequential flights might get affected. Passengers are requested to keep a check on their flight status via http://spicejet.com/#status." Spice Jet Posted on X.
Hazardous air quality
The city's air quality has consistently hovered in the most hazardous band, where an AQI between 401 and 500 is classified as 'severe'. Visuals from various parts of Delhi painted a grim picture, with a dense, toxic haze obscuring landmarks. At Akshardham, the AQI soared to a staggering 493, while other critical points like the Barapulla flyover and Barakhamba Road registered 433 and 474, respectively, indicating dangerously unhealthy air.
IMD issues an Orange alert
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an 'orange' alert, warning of continued dense smog, which has brought daily life to a grinding halt for many.
Emergency measures in force
In response to the escalating crisis, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) had already invoked the strictest measures under its Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)-Stage IV over the weekend. These emergency protocols include:
Complete ban on construction: All construction and demolition activities across Delhi-NCR have been strictly prohibited.
Work-from-home mandate: The Delhi government has directed 50 per cent of staff in both government and private offices to work from home to reduce vehicular emissions.
Hybrid schooling: Schools up to Class 11 (with the exception of Class 10) have been instructed to conduct classes in a hybrid mode, combining both physical and online learning, to protect students from the severe air.
