November 18, 2024 - Delhi and NCR continue to be choked by severe smog with flights and train services being disrupted this morning. Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded in the capital this morning was at 481, the worst so far this season thus placing it in the “severe plus” category. Visibility early this morning was very poor dropping to 150 metres.

Delhi government has announced GRAP IV (Graded Response Action Plan) which means strict pollution control measures following the deteriorating situation in the city. Construction activities have been suspended and restrictions imposed on vehicle movement. Public and private offices have been told to work at 50% capacity with the rest working from home. Schools in Delhi have gone online, except for Grades 10 and 12. Also, in neighbouring Haryana, primary schools have been shut while Uttar Pradesh and Punjab are monitoring the situation in their States.

According to reports, more than 160 flights (118 departures and 43 arrivals) at Delhi airport were delayed until 8:30 am because of poor visibility and seven flights were cancelled. Departure delays averaged 22 minutes. More than 28 trains bound for New Delhi and Anand Vihar railway stations faced delays of two-to-nine hours today.

Airlines have issued advisory to passengers out-and-into Delhi to check flight status before leaving home.

Stubble burning or illegal farm fires in Punjab and Haryana are responsible for around 38% of pollution this year in Delhi.