The national capital woke up to a thick layer of toxic smog on Monday, with weather conditions exacerbating an already dire air quality crisis. Delhi’s air quality index dipped into the ‘Severe Plus’ category and crossed 456, while Ashok Vihar recorded a maximum of 500 in the morning hours.
In response to the conditions, IndiGo warned that flights may be delayed as inclement weather may extend travel time beyond the scheduled time.
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In a post on X, IndiGo said: “Delhi is experiencing the first hint of winter fog this morning and visibility around the airport is currently reduced. As operations adjust to the changing weather, departures of some flights may take a little longer.”
Road traffic can also be slower due to fog, so we recommend allowing more time when planning your journey to the airport. Our teams are closely monitoring the situation and will keep you informed. As conditions improve, we will continue departures with safety at the forefront, he added.
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Meanwhile, Air India said, “Poor visibility due to dense fog is affecting flight operations in Delhi and parts of North India.”
Warning of IMD problems
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for dense fog and is advising people to be cautious. Night temperatures dropped to 8.2 degrees Celsius, according to the IMD.
Footage from Anand Vihar and Akshardham showed the areas shrouded in a thick layer of toxic smog, with the air quality index reaching 493, firmly in the ‘Severe’ category. Similar conditions were reported in Dwarka, where the AQI reached 469, also classified as “severe”.
Are schools in Delhi closed on Monday 15 December?
The Delhi government’s Directorate of Education on Saturday issued the following guidelines for schools in the national capital:
— As per the instructions issued, all schools have been asked to switch to hybrid classes for students up to class IX and XI. Courses must be taken in a combination of offline and online learning whenever possible and continue in this arrangement until further notice.
“Avoid walking outside,” urges a health expert
Health expert Shila Yadav warned that with the AQI ranging from 300 to 400 and exceeding 450 at times, people should refrain from walking or exercising outdoors, especially in the morning, PTI reported.
She added that while staying active remains important, exercise should move indoors because breathing polluted air allows fine particles such as PM2.5 to travel deep into the lungs and pose serious health risks.
Advising people to go out only when necessary, preferably later in the day when sunlight improves dispersion, Yadav said wearing masks was essential for those who had to go to work.
She also cautioned against strenuous activities that involve heavy breathing and stressed the importance of a healthy diet, adequate hydration and eating seasonal fruits to help the body flush out toxins.
(This is a developing story, check back later for updates)
(With input from agencies)
