NEW DELHI: Delhi woke up to a dense layer of smog on Saturday, with the India Meteorological Department issuing an orange alert for dense fog on Saturday.
Flight operations affectedThe aviation ministry released guidelines for low-visibility procedures, while Delhi Airport advised passengers, “Low-visibility procedures are still in progress at Delhi Airport. All flight operations are functioning normally. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest flight updates.” Air India and IndiGo have also alerted travellers to possible disruptions. Air pollution in the capital has worsened, with the air quality index (AQI) reaching 633 at 7.22am on Saturday, according to AQI.in.Areas including Sarai Kale Khan, Barapullah flyover, Akshardham, and Rao Tularam Marg are reporting hazardous pollution levels. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded AQI readings of 428 at Sarai Kale Khan, 380 at Barapullah flyover, 420 at Akshardham, and 403 at Rao Tularam Marg, placing the air in the ‘Severe’ to ‘Very Poor’ categories. For reference, AQI levels are classified as ‘Good’ (0–50), ‘Satisfactory’ (51–100), ‘Moderate’ (101–200), ‘Poor’ (201–300), ‘Very Poor’ (301–400), and ‘Severe’ (401–500). The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has activated all measures under GRAP Stage-IV in Delhi-NCR to control pollution and protect public health. Authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activities, wear masks when venturing outside, and stay updated on airline schedules and local weather alerts.
