Delhi fog: AQI breaches 500, flight operations disrupted
What's the story
Delhi woke up to a dense blanket of fog on Monday, severely impacting visibility and traffic across the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for fog, with night temperatures dropping to 8.2 degrees Celsius. The thick smog also worsened the already poor air quality in the national capital, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) touching a "Severe Plus" level of 456.
Pollution levels
Delhi's AQI reaches 'Severe plus' category
The AQI in Ashok Vihar touched a staggering 500 in the early hours of Monday. Anand Vihar and Akshardham areas recorded an AQI of 493, while Dwarka's AQI was at 469. Noida also witnessed poor air quality with an AQI of 454, falling under the "Severe Plus" category. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) had earlier on Saturday invoked Stage IV measures under its Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) due to rising pollution levels.
Travel impact
Flight operations at Delhi airport disrupted
The dense fog and poor air quality have also affected flight operations at Delhi airport. The airport issued an advisory warning passengers of possible delays due to low visibility. IndiGo and Air India also informed their passengers about potential disruptions, urging them to check flight statuses on their respective websites or apps.
Health advisory
Health experts warn against outdoor activities
Health experts have also cautioned against outdoor activities due to the toxic air. Speaking to news agency PTI, an expert advised people to avoid morning walks or exercise and step out only when necessary later in the day when sunlight helps disperse pollutants. Masks are recommended for those who must go outside for work.