Is Delhi Suffocating Under ‘Very Poor’ Air Quality as Fog Disrupts Flights?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As Delhi battles alarming pollution levels, the air quality has plunged further into the ‘very poor’ category, with dense fog complicating travel plans, particularly at the airport. Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors as air quality deteriorates further.
Key Takeaways
- Delhi's AQI is currently at 387, indicating 'very poor' air quality.
- Dense fog is disrupting flight operations at IGI Airport.
- R K Puram recorded the highest pollution level at 447.
- CAQM has invoked GRAP Stage-IV measures to mitigate pollution.
- Residents are urged to minimize outdoor activities.
New Delhi, Dec 19 (NationPress) The city of Delhi is once again grappling with severe air pollution as of Friday, with air quality further declining and dense fog exacerbating travel challenges, especially for those flying.
The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital reached 387 at 6 a.m., firmly placing it in the ‘very poor’ category, offering no relief from the persistent pollution that has enveloped the city.
This marks a significant decline from Thursday’s AQI of 356, highlighting a troubling trend of deteriorating air quality throughout Delhi. Footage from various areas, including the ITO region, depicted a thick haze of toxic smog covering roads and buildings, drastically diminishing visibility.
Compounding the issues for residents, dense fog has severely affected flight operations at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. Consequently, authorities have initiated CAT III operations, a low-visibility protocol often resulting in delays and the rescheduling of flights.
A passenger advisory released via X stated, “Due to current dense fog conditions, flight operations are being managed under CAT III conditions, which has led to disruptions in our flight schedules. We assure you that our team is actively working with all stakeholders to assist passengers and provide necessary support across all terminals. Please check with your airlines for real-time flight updates. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.”
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) confirmed that ground teams are coordinating closely with airlines and other stakeholders to support travelers at all terminals, and passengers are encouraged to verify their flight status before heading to the airport.
Several areas in the capital are reporting alarmingly high AQI levels, nearing or surpassing the ‘severe’ category. R K Puram has emerged as the most polluted area, recording an AQI of 447, followed by Anand Vihar, Vivek Vihar, and Sirifort, all at 442.
Other pollution hotspots include Dwarka Sector-8 (429), Nehru Nagar (425), NSIT Dwarka (423), Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range (423), and Okhla Phase-2 (422), underscoring the widespread nature of this crisis.
In response to the declining air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated all measures under GRAP Stage-IV across Delhi-NCR. These actions include tighter restrictions on construction, industrial activities, and vehicular movement to curb further deterioration.
Given the high pollution levels, authorities are urging residents to minimize outdoor activities and adhere to health advisories.
Point of View
It's clear that the ongoing pollution crisis in Delhi is a significant public health concern, compounded by the current weather conditions. The measures implemented by the CAQM are crucial in addressing the air quality issues. Citizens must remain informed and cautious to safeguard their health.
NationPress
19/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current AQI level in Delhi?
As of 6 a.m. on December 19, the AQI in Delhi stood at 387, categorized as 'very poor'.
How is the fog affecting flights in Delhi?
Dense fog has prompted the implementation of CAT III operations at IGI Airport, leading to flight delays and rescheduling.
What areas in Delhi are the most polluted?
R K Puram is currently the most polluted area with an AQI of 447, followed by several other localities nearing severe levels.
What measures are being taken to address the pollution?
The Commission for Air Quality Management has activated GRAP Stage-IV measures, enforcing stricter controls on construction, industry, and vehicle movement.
What should residents do to protect themselves?
Residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure and follow health advisories due to the high pollution levels.
