Flights and trains disrupted as dense smog blankets Delhi, reducing visibility

Thick smog enveloped Delhi on Monday, severely impacting visibility and disrupting transportation. Over 160 flights at Indira Gandhi International Airport were delayed, including 118 departures and 43 arrivals, while seven flights were canceled. Departure delays averaged 22 minutes, according to Flightradar24. Train services were also affected, with over 28 trains arriving at New Delhi and Anand Vihar Railway stations delayed by two to nine hours, leaving passengers stranded outside stations.

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Delhi Government Implements Measures to Tackle Pollution

In response to the worsening air quality, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi announced staggered office timings to help curb pollution. Central government offices will operate from 9 am to 5:30 pm, Delhi government offices from 10 am to 6:30 pm, and Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) offices from 8:30 am to 5 pm. Additionally, all primary schools have shifted to online classes to safeguard children’s health.

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Air Quality Reaches “Severe Plus” Levels

Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached alarming levels, with 32 out of 34 monitoring stations reporting “severe” levels above 400. By 6 am, the city’s AQI had surged to 481, placing it in the “severe plus” category. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), AQI levels above 450 pose significant health risks, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions.

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Advisory Issued for Passengers Amid Low Visibility

Indira Gandhi International Airport issued an advisory for passengers. Urging them to stay updated on flight statuses and potential changes to their travel plans as low visibility procedures were implemented. With GRAP Stage 4 anti-pollution measures activated across Delhi-NCR. Authorities are focusing on reducing pollution levels to mitigate the smog’s impact on daily life.

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