A thick layer of smog descended on Delhi Thursday morning, leading to over 300 flight delays as visibility plummeted. According to flight tracking data from Flightradar 24, a total of 115 incoming and 226 outgoing flights were delayed, with departure delays averaging around 54 minutes.
Delhi Airport issued a visibility advisory, urging passengers to check with airlines for flight updates. Meanwhile, IndiGo Airlines also posted a travel advisory on X (formerly Twitter), advising travelers to monitor their flight status and plan for slower road travel due to the fog.
Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) skyrocketed to a “severe” level, with a reading of 459 recorded at midday, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Of the city’s 39 monitoring stations, 32 reported AQI readings over 400, indicating hazardous air conditions. Notable hot spots included Anand Vihar, IGI Airport, and Patparganj.
While some relief is expected with increased wind activity, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) anticipates only a slight improvement, bringing the AQI down to the “very poor” range.
Government Response and GRAP-3 Measures
Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai stated that phase three of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP-3) will remain on hold, given forecasts of improved air quality in the coming days. “Fog layer in Delhi due to low wind speed, it is expected to improve,” he noted, adding that additional measures would be taken if air quality worsens.
With smog likely to continue impacting visibility and public health, Delhi residents and travelers are advised to take necessary precautions.
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