Severe smog blanketed Delhi on Monday, reducing visibility and causing significant disruptions to train and flight operations. The worsening air quality, classified as “severe plus,” led to delays across the city’s transportation network.
Over 160 flights, including 118 departures and 43 arrivals, were delayed at Indira Gandhi International Airport by 8:30 am due to reduced visibility, according to Flightradar24. The airport activated low visibility procedures and issued an advisory urging passengers to stay updated with their airlines about flight statuses.
Smog also disrupted train operations, delaying over 28 trains arriving at New Delhi and Anand Vihar Railway stations by two to nine hours. Passengers were seen waiting outside stations amid the confusion.
Severe Air Quality Triggers Emergency Measures
Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached an alarming 481 by 6 am, placing it in the “severe plus” category. According to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, 32 out of 34 monitoring stations in the city reported AQI levels exceeding 400.
The AQI classification indicates dire health risks:
•401-450 (Severe): Harmful for healthy individuals and severe effects on vulnerable groups.
•Above 450 (Severe Plus): Significant health risks even for healthy individuals.
To tackle the crisis, the Delhi government implemented GRAP Stage 4 anti-pollution measures:
Staggered office timings:
•Central government offices: 9 am to 5:30 pm.
•Delhi government offices: 10 am to 6:30 pm.
•Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) offices: 8:30 am to 5 pm.
Primary schools have shifted to online classes until further notice.
What’s Next?
As smog continues to choke the capital, passengers are advised to monitor updates from airlines and railway authorities to minimize inconvenience. Meanwhile, the government urges residents to limit outdoor activities and take precautions against the health impacts of toxic air quality.
For details on restrictions and anti-pollution measures under GRAP Stage 4, check “What’s allowed, what’s not?”.
