Delhi Chokes Under Severe Air Pollution as Dense Fog Hits Visibility, Flights Affected

With no respite from worsening air pollution, the national capital woke up to another morning of dense fog, poor visibility and deteriorating air quality on Friday. The city's overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 387, placing it in the 'very poor' category, while several areas recorded readings above 400, slipping into the 'severe' zone.

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed that pollution levels remained alarmingly high across large parts of the city in the early hours. Residents reported a strong smell of smog, irritation in the eyes and throat, and difficulty breathing, particularly during morning hours.

Visibility drops across the capital

Delhi witnessed thick fog early on Friday, sharply reducing visibility across major roads and residential areas. Visuals from different parts of the city showed vehicles moving slowly with headlights on as commuters struggled through near-zero visibility in some locations.

Similar conditions were seen at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, where dense fog covered the runways and terminals. Passengers were seen navigating through the fog as flight operations were impacted due to low visibility.

Airlines issue advisories, flights disrupted

Several airlines, including Air India, IndiGo and SpiceJet, issued advisories warning passengers of possible delays and disruptions due to foggy conditions in Delhi. IndiGo, citing warnings from the weather department, urged travellers to check their flight status before leaving for the airport and to allow extra travel time, as low visibility could also slow road traffic.

SpiceJet released a similar advisory, asking passengers to remain updated on flight schedules amid the prevailing weather conditions. Air India informed travellers about its 'FogCare' initiative, which provides advance alerts on registered mobile numbers and allows passengers to reschedule flights without additional charges during severe fog.

The Delhi airport later confirmed that flight operations were affected, with services being conducted under CAT III conditions due to low visibility. Officials said teams were in place to assist passengers and manage disruptions. The update came a day after at least 27 flights were cancelled in Delhi because of thick fog and reduced visibility.

As pollution levels remain dangerously high and weather conditions continue to worsen, authorities have urged residents, especially children, the elderly and those with respiratory conditions, to limit outdoor exposure. With no immediate improvement in sight, Delhi continues to grapple with a combination of toxic air and winter fog, further disrupting daily life and travel.