New Delhi — Residents of the national capital woke up to thick fog and worsening air pollution on Sunday, with the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) in the “very poor” range and several parts nearing “severe” levels.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data, Delhi’s AQI was around 391 early Sunday morning, a level that poses health risks, especially to children, elderly people, and those with breathing problems.
Fog and Calm Winds Trap Pollution
The dense fog, combined with low wind speeds, prevented polluted air from dispersing. This weather pattern trapped dust, smoke, and vehicle emissions close to the ground, making the smog thicker across the city.
Visibility was significantly reduced in many areas, making it hard for commuters and causing delays in air traffic.
Flight Delays at IGI Airport
Flight tracking data showed that more than 150 flights were delayed at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) due to reduced visibility caused by the fog. Airlines and airport officials advised passengers to check with their carriers before travelling.
An airport spokesperson said that operations were continuing safely with support staff available at terminals, but the weather still affected normal flight schedules.
Pollution Levels and Weather Conditions
Out of many monitoring stations across Delhi, several recorded AQI values in the “severe” category, especially in heavily populated areas like Anand Vihar (445), Chandni Chowk (415), and Jahangirpuri (430).
The minimum temperature dropped to around 6.3°C on Sunday morning, below the seasonal average, adding to the cold, smoggy conditions.
Health Warnings and Safety Tips
Health experts and city authorities urged people, particularly those with respiratory diseases, young children, and older adults, to limit outdoor activities and consider wearing protective masks when stepping outside.
Long-term exposure to poor air can cause coughing, irritation, and breathing difficulties.
Why This Happens in Winter
Delhi commonly faces poor air quality in the winter months due to a mix of factors:
1. Cold temperatures hold pollutants close to the ground.
2. Calm winds prevent pollution from dispersing.
3. Dense fog mixes with vehicle and industrial emissions, creating smog.
What Lies Ahead
Weather experts say that unless wind speed increases or rain occurs, Delhi’s air quality is likely to remain poor over the next few days.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely as winter conditions continue to worsen pollution levels in the capital.