New Delhi: Passengers at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport were warned on Tuesday morning of potential flight disruptions as dense fog and reduced visibility affected operations in the national capital.
In a post on X at 6:06 AM, Delhi Airport stated that while flight operations were gradually recovering, certain arrivals and departures could still face delays. Travellers were advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest schedule updates. Airport authorities confirmed that ground staff were deployed across terminals to assist passengers during the period of low visibility.
The advisory comes as Delhi continues to experience hazardous air conditions. At around 8 AM, the city recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 378, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Although slightly improved from Monday’s peak of 427 (‘severe’ category), pollution levels remain dangerously high across the capital.
Certain areas, including India Gate and Sarai Kale Khan, recorded AQI levels of 380 and 359 respectively (‘very poor’), while Ghazipur and Anand Vihar remained in the ‘severe’ category with AQI readings around 410. The AQI scale classifies values between 301-400 as ‘very poor’ and 401-500 as ‘severe’.
Other major Indian cities reported relatively better air quality, with Ahmedabad at 117, Bengaluru 104, Chennai 135, Hyderabad 103, and Mumbai 109, mostly in the ‘moderate’ to ‘satisfactory’ range. Jaipur (187), Lucknow (158), Patna (156), and Pune (194) recorded ‘moderate’ AQI levels.
Meanwhile, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) convened the first meeting of its Expert Committee for Delhi-NCR and adjoining areas on Monday. Chaired by Ashok Jhunjhunwala and co-chaired by Prof. Randeep Guleria, the committee discussed key issues relating to vehicular emissions, including segment-wise contributions, exposure risks, and EV infrastructure needs. Concrete recommendations to reduce vehicular pollution are expected in upcoming sessions.
The advisory coincides with the city grappling with severe air pollution, which recently crossed the 450 mark, prompting CAQM to implement Stage IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Residents are advised to take precautions and limit outdoor activities during high pollution periods.
