Delhi/NCR: A thick layer of smog blanketed the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) on Wednesday morning, affecting visibility and causing widespread disruption to daily life. The dense haze, particularly affecting Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad, led to severe air pollution levels and significant flight disruptions at Delhi’s airports.

Flight Operations Disrupted

Due to the severe smog and drastically reduced visibility, several flights were diverted from Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) early Wednesday. Seven flights, including six bound for Jaipur and one to Lucknow, were redirected as a result of the hazardous conditions. The diversions, starting as early as 7 a.m., have added to the growing frustrations of travelers, with delays expected to continue throughout the day as the air quality remains dangerous.

Air Quality Index (AQI) Reaches ‘Severe’ Levels

The air quality in Delhi reached alarming levels, surpassing the 400 mark on the AQI scale, which places it firmly in the ‘Severe’ category. This marks a sharp deterioration from previous weeks, with the AQI in Delhi moving from ‘Very Poor’ to ‘Severe,’ putting the health of residents at considerable risk. Neighboring areas such as Gurugram, Noida, and Ghaziabad also recorded poor air quality, further contributing to the regional pollution crisis. Faridabad reported a relatively better AQI of 188, falling under the ‘Moderate’ category, but still concerning for those with respiratory conditions.

Health experts have warned that prolonged exposure to such high levels of air pollution can lead to respiratory diseases, heart problems, and exacerbate pre-existing conditions, particularly in vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with underlying health issues.

Visibility Reduced, Daily Life Disrupted

Visibility in many parts of Delhi and NCR was significantly reduced, with the smog obstructing road traffic and making outdoor activities difficult. Schools, offices, and other public institutions have been urged to limit outdoor exposure, and health advisories have been issued, advising people to wear masks and avoid strenuous physical activities outdoors.

Graded Response Action Plan in Effect

In response to the worsening air quality, the Delhi government has activated the second stage of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). The measures under GRAP include the implementation of mechanical road sweeping, water sprinkling to suppress dust, and enhanced dust control measures at construction sites. However, experts believe these measures may not be sufficient to counter the sheer scale of pollution unless additional steps, such as reducing vehicular emissions and halting construction activities, are taken.

Worsening Pollution in the Indo-Gangetic Plains

The pollution crisis is not limited to Delhi alone. The entire Indo-Gangetic Plain, stretching across northern India, continues to suffer from high levels of particulate matter. Cities like Patna, Chandigarh, and several towns in Haryana are ranking among the most polluted in the country on Wednesday. This long-standing air pollution problem in the region is exacerbated by the burning of crop residues in neighboring states, vehicular emissions, and industrial activity.

International Concern: Impact on Pakistan’s Children

The severe air quality in the region has also raised international alarm. In Pakistan, UNICEF has raised concerns about the health risks to over 11 million children living in the eastern Punjab province. With the pollution spreading across borders, the agency has called for urgent action to mitigate the health impact, particularly on young children whose respiratory systems are most vulnerable.

Air Quality Classification:

• 0-50: Good
• 51-100: Satisfactory
• 101-200: Moderate
• 201-300: Poor
• 301-400: Very Poor
• 401-450: Severe
• Above 450: Severe Plus

Looking Ahead: A Long-Term Solution

As Delhi continues to grapple with the annual smog crisis, environmentalists and policymakers are calling for a comprehensive approach to improve air quality in the region. Immediate solutions, such as controlling vehicular emissions and reducing crop residue burning, must be complemented by long-term investments in green infrastructure and sustainable urban planning.

The rising air pollution in Delhi and NCR underscores the urgent need for more stringent measures to tackle pollution at both the local and national levels. Until such measures are implemented effectively, residents will continue to face health risks, disrupted daily routines, and environmental degradation.