**Delhi's visibility drops to near-zero as pollution levels soar, prompting government action to mitigate travel issues.**
**Travel Disruption Hits Delhi Amidst Severe Smog Conditions**
**Travel Disruption Hits Delhi Amidst Severe Smog Conditions**
**Dense fog and hazardous air quality lead to numerous flight and train delays in the Indian capital.**
Dense fog coupled with extreme air pollution has plunged Delhi into a chaotic travel scene, affecting air and rail transport significantly. On Friday, visibility levels dropped dramatically, with reports indicating near-zero conditions in numerous areas. This disruption has led to delays for over 150 flights and numerous trains, making travel particularly challenging for thousands of commuters.
Each winter, Delhi grapples with severe weather conditions that trap pollutants close to the ground, resulting in reduced visibility and dangerous air quality levels. According to data from the Safar website, the air quality index (AQI) in many parts of Delhi surpassed 400, registering over 25 times the limits recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). In response to these alarming pollution levels, Delhi officials have reinstated environmental protection measures, including halting construction activities and transitioning schools to virtual learning.
Photos and videos circulating on social media depict a thick layer of fog engulfing the city and obscuring landmarks. The Delhi airport issued a cautionary advisory for travelers, indicating potential delays due to the low visibility. While flights remain operational, those that do not meet CAT III standards—allowing for landings in poor visibility—are at risk of disruption. Flight tracking sites report delays averaging over 30 minutes for departures and nearly 20 minutes for arrivals. Passengers expressed frustration on social media platforms, with many sharing tales of disorganized boarding processes.
Moreover, the Indian Railways indicated that at least 26 trains heading to Delhi are running late, further compounding the transportation crisis. Meteorological forecasts did predict light rainfall for the upcoming weekend, which may aid in clearing the dense fog and improving visibility in the capital. Meanwhile, citizens are urged to maintain precautionary measures as the city battles the twin challenges of smog and cold weather.
Each winter, Delhi grapples with severe weather conditions that trap pollutants close to the ground, resulting in reduced visibility and dangerous air quality levels. According to data from the Safar website, the air quality index (AQI) in many parts of Delhi surpassed 400, registering over 25 times the limits recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). In response to these alarming pollution levels, Delhi officials have reinstated environmental protection measures, including halting construction activities and transitioning schools to virtual learning.
Photos and videos circulating on social media depict a thick layer of fog engulfing the city and obscuring landmarks. The Delhi airport issued a cautionary advisory for travelers, indicating potential delays due to the low visibility. While flights remain operational, those that do not meet CAT III standards—allowing for landings in poor visibility—are at risk of disruption. Flight tracking sites report delays averaging over 30 minutes for departures and nearly 20 minutes for arrivals. Passengers expressed frustration on social media platforms, with many sharing tales of disorganized boarding processes.
Moreover, the Indian Railways indicated that at least 26 trains heading to Delhi are running late, further compounding the transportation crisis. Meteorological forecasts did predict light rainfall for the upcoming weekend, which may aid in clearing the dense fog and improving visibility in the capital. Meanwhile, citizens are urged to maintain precautionary measures as the city battles the twin challenges of smog and cold weather.
