New Delhi – As Delhi continues to battle severe air pollution, the Singapore High Commission in New Delhi has issued an advisory to its nationals residing in Delhi-NCR, urging them to take precautions and "pay heed" to local government guidance. The advisory includes instructions to stay indoors and wear masks if stepping out, as the city grapples with hazardous air quality levels.
The advisory, posted on the High Commission's official X (formerly Twitter) handle, references the Indian Central Pollution Control Board's (CPCB) invocation of Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on December 13, 2025. Stage 4 represents the highest level of response to deteriorating air quality, triggering heavy restrictions on construction and industrial activities, and encouraging schools and offices to adopt hybrid formats.
The Singapore High Commission emphasized the Delhi government's recommendation for residents, particularly children and individuals with respiratory or cardiac conditions, to remain indoors and use masks when venturing outside. "In this regard, the High Commission urges Singapore nationals in the Delhi National Capital Region to pay heed to this advice," the statement added.
The air quality in Delhi has remained in the 'severe' category for the third consecutive day, with experts warning of potential harm to respiratory and heart functions. On Monday, the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded at 452 at around 8 am, according to the CPCB. An AQI above 400 is classified as 'severe'. Jahangirpuri recorded the worst air quality among all 40 stations with an AQI of 498.
In addition to health concerns, the Singapore High Commission also alerted its citizens to potential flight disruptions due to low visibility caused by the dense smog. Travelers are advised to check with their respective airlines for updates. Dozens of flights have been canceled and many others delayed at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. The High Commission has provided a contact point for Singaporeans in the Delhi-NCR region requiring consular assistance.
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked GRAP Stage 4 on December 13 after the air quality in Delhi and surrounding areas deteriorated sharply. Under GRAP Stage 4, a number of restrictions are put in place. States have been advised to consider additional emergency measures, including suspending non-essential commercial activities and implementing odd-even vehicle restrictions, to reduce emissions.
Other countries, including the United Kingdom and Canada, have also issued advisories cautioning their citizens about the hazardous air quality in Northern India. The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advised pregnant women and individuals with heart or respiratory conditions to consult a doctor before traveling to India. Canada issued a similar advisory, urging travelers to monitor air quality regularly, especially those with respiratory ailments.
The Supreme Court of India has acknowledged the issue and stated that it will pass enforceable orders regarding the worsening air pollution in Delhi-NCR. The matter is scheduled to be heard on December 17.
