Delhi’s Air Turns Deadly: Toxic Smog Pushes AQI Beyond 450, Travel Disrupted and Emergency Curbs Enforced

A thick blanket of toxic smog has once again engulfed India’s capital, pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) well beyond hazardous levels, breaching 450 and in some areas touching 500, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). The crisis has triggered widespread disruption to travel and forced authorities to impose emergency measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage IV, the strictest level of pollution control.

Hazardous Air Quality Across the Capital

• Monitoring stations in Rohini recorded AQI at 499, while Anand Vihar touched 493, placing them firmly in the “severe plus” category.
• Visibility dropped to 5–10 metres in several parts of the city, including Akshardham, Kartavya Path, and AIIMS, leaving commuters stranded and roads choked with slow-moving traffic.
• International monitors, such as IQAir, reported readings above 800 in certain areas, underscoring the scale of the emergency.

Travel Chaos

The smog has wreaked havoc on transportation:

• Indira Gandhi International Airport reported hundreds of delays and cancellations, with at least 228 flights cancelled and over 400 delayed on Monday.
• Rail services were similarly affected, with more than 50 trains running hours behind schedule due to poor visibility.
• Several inbound flights were diverted, and airlines including IndiGo and Air India issued advisories warning of continued disruption.

Emergency Measures

Authorities have rolled out Stage IV of GRAP, which includes:

• A ban on construction activities across the capital to curb dust emissions.
• Closure of schools and a shift to hybrid or online classes in many districts.
• Advisories urging residents to stay indoors, avoid outdoor exercise, and use N95 masks if venturing outside.
• Courts in Delhi and NCR have recommended virtual hearings to reduce travel amid the crisis.

Health Risks

Medical experts warn that AQI levels above 450 pose serious respiratory risks even for healthy individuals, while children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions are particularly vulnerable. Hospitals across Delhi have reported a surge in patients complaining of breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and aggravated asthma.

Broader Context

The smog crisis coincides with winter weather patterns that trap pollutants close to the ground. Analysts point to vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and stubble burning in neighbouring states as major contributors. Despite incremental progress in reducing pollution over the past decade, December remains the most difficult month for Delhi, with the city frequently slipping into the “severe plus” category.

Global Spotlight

The toxic haze has also drawn international attention, overshadowing high-profile events such as football icon Lionel Messi’s visit to Delhi, which was delayed due to flight disruptions. The crisis has reignited debate over India’s pollution policies and the urgent need for long-term solutions.

In summary: Delhi is facing one of its worst pollution emergencies of the season, with AQI readings breaching hazardous levels above 450, crippling travel, and prompting emergency restrictions. With visibility collapsing and health risks mounting, the capital is once again grappling with the grim reality of its annual “airpocalypse.”