Delhi faces a double-double attack of cold and pollution: Dense fog slows down traffic, IGI Airport issues advisory; AQI crosses 400

Pollution is increasing in the capital due to local factors. Due to low wind speed, the air quality remains in the 'very poor' category for the fifth consecutive day. Saturday morning began with a thick layer of mist and fog, along with a dense blanket of smog. This resulted in extremely low visibility in many areas, causing eye irritation and respiratory problems for people, especially those with pre-existing conditions. The poor visibility affected road and air traffic. The Delhi airport has issued an advisory for passengers. According to the Air Quality Early Warning System for Delhi, the average Air Quality Index (AQI) in the capital was recorded at 376 on Saturday morning, which falls in the 'very poor' category. In several areas, the AQI crossed 400.

AQI above 400 in several areas of Delhi

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data at 7 AM, the AQI in Alipur, Delhi, was 362, Anand Vihar 428, Ashok Vihar 412, Aya Nagar 298, Bawana 365, Burari 381, and Chandni Chowk 410.

Meanwhile, the AQI was recorded at 411 in DTU, 409 in Dwarka Sector 8, 321 at IGI Airport T3, 433 in ITO, 425 in Jahangirpuri, 336 in Lodhi Road, 416 in Mundka, 301 in Najafgarh, 415 in Punjabi Bagh, 415 in Rohini, 430 in Vivek Vihar, 392 in Sonia Vihar, 405 in RK Puram, and 420 in Wazirpur.

Dense fog is affecting road and air traffic

An orange alert for dense fog was issued for Delhi on Saturday morning, while a yellow alert for fog is in effect for December 21st and 22nd. No relief from the fog is expected for the next four days. Due to high humidity levels in the morning and at night, fog is being observed. Dense fog blanketed the area in the morning, affecting daily life. Visibility was significantly reduced, causing considerable difficulties for drivers on the roads. Air traffic has also been significantly impacted.

IGI Airport Issues Advisory

Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport has issued a travel advisory for passengers. In a post on social media, Delhi Airport stated that low visibility procedures are currently in effect at the airport. All flights are operating normally. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for the latest information regarding their flights.