New Delhi is grappling with a severe smog episode, prompting authorities to issue advisories and urge residents to take precautions. The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) has issued an advisory due to low visibility conditions across the capital.
The airport authority has assured that flight operations are currently normal, as "Low Visibility Procedures" are in progress. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for updated flight information. The advisory was issued on Saturday morning as the air quality in Delhi deteriorated sharply, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded over 410, placing it in the 'severe' category.
Thick smog and shallow fog have blanketed several parts of the city, significantly reducing visibility. Other areas, such as Sansad Marg, are experiencing 'very poor' air quality, with an AQI of 365.
According to the India Meteorological Department, moderate fog is expected to persist, which could further worsen the air quality. The current weather in Delhi is partly cloudy with a temperature of 14°C and 92% humidity. The forecast for the next few days indicates continued cloudy or partly cloudy conditions with a slight chance of rain.
Officials have attributed the heavy smog to low wind speeds, which are trapping pollutants near the ground. Additionally, weak western disturbances are unlikely to provide immediate relief.
Health experts are advising residents to limit outdoor exposure and follow health advisories to protect themselves from the harmful effects of the smog. Children, the elderly, and those with respiratory problems are particularly vulnerable.
The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported a 24-hour average AQI of 349 on Friday, which falls into the 'very poor' range. The Air Quality Early Warning System forecasts that air quality will remain 'very poor' on Saturday and may deteriorate to 'severe' on Sunday. Data from the CPCB's Sameer app indicates that out of 39 monitoring stations across Delhi, 27 recorded 'very poor' air quality.
While there had been slight improvements in air quality in recent weeks, much of the city remains under a heavy layer of smog, raising public health concerns. Residents are bracing for another challenging winter smog episode and hoping for measures to alleviate the pollution.
