Thick smog blankets Delhi as fog disrupts flights and trains and air quality worsens
Thick smog and dense fog enveloped Delhi, disrupting flight and train services and pushing air quality into the very poor category. With unfavourable weather conditions persisting, authorities warned that pollution levels were likely to worsen, prompting health advisories for residents.
Delhi woke up to a blanket of thick smog and dense fog that severely affected visibility and disrupted normal life across the city. Several flights were delayed or diverted due to poor visibility at the airport, while train services were also impacted as fog reduced sightlines on railway tracks.
Air quality readings across multiple monitoring stations showed pollution levels in the very poor category. The accumulation of fine particulate matter was attributed to a combination of vehicular emissions, dust and seasonal factors, compounded by calm winds and low temperatures that trapped pollutants close to the ground.
Meteorological experts said the situation was aggravated by temperature inversion, a condition where cooler air near the surface is trapped under a layer of warmer air above it. This prevents vertical dispersion of pollutants and allows smog to linger for longer periods, especially during early morning and late night hours.
Authorities advised residents to limit outdoor activities, particularly during peak pollution hours. People with respiratory conditions, children and the elderly were urged to take extra precautions. Hospitals in the city reported an increase in patients complaining of breathing difficulties, eye irritation and throat discomfort.
Traffic movement slowed in several areas as visibility dropped sharply, increasing the risk of accidents. Commuters faced delays and longer travel times, adding to daily inconvenience. Civic agencies said they were monitoring the situation closely and coordinating with transport authorities to manage disruptions.
Environmental experts reiterated the need for long term solutions to tackle Delhi’s recurring winter pollution problem. While emergency measures can provide temporary relief, sustained action on vehicle emissions, construction dust and regional pollution sources remains critical.
With weather conditions expected to remain unfavourable in the coming days, officials warned that air quality could deteriorate further. Residents were advised to follow official updates and health advisories as Delhi continues to grapple with the annual challenge of winter smog.
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