New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): A thick blanket of smog covered large parts of Delhi on Saturday morning, pushing air pollution to hazardous levels and disrupting normal life across the city. Visibility dropped significantly in several areas as residents woke up to one of the season’s worst air quality episodes so far.
According to readings from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 384 at around 8 am, indicating “very poor” air. However, multiple monitoring stations reported even higher pollution, with levels entering the “severe” category.
Localities such as ITO, Anand Vihar and Sarai Kale Khan witnessed AQI readings close to or above 425, while Akshardham, Ashok Vihar and Rao Tularam Marg also reported dangerously elevated pollution levels. The Barapullah corridor, a major traffic stretch, remained heavily polluted through the early hours.
In response, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) enforced the toughest restrictions under Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi and the National Capital Region. The measures include a temporary halt on non-essential construction work, curbs on certain diesel-powered vehicles, and stricter monitoring of pollution sources such as industrial emissions and road dust.
The dense smog also led to an advisory from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. Airport authorities confirmed that low-visibility protocols were in effect on Saturday morning, although flight operations were continuing. Passengers were advised to stay updated with their airlines, as delays could occur due to weather conditions.
An airport statement issued early in the day noted that arrivals and departures were ongoing, but warned that fog-related disruptions could not be ruled out. On Friday, several flights had already experienced delays as cold weather and reduced visibility affected operations.
With air quality remaining in the danger zone, health experts have urged people to minimize outdoor activity, especially during early morning hours, and to take precautions as authorities continue efforts to curb pollution levels in the capital.
