POLLUTION

Delhi Chokes Under Smog as AQI Soars to 428; Flight Operations Impacted Amid Reduced Visibility

Thick fog in Delhi ahead of Republic Day (Piyal Bhattacharjee/BCCL) — Thick fog in Delhi ahead of Republic Day
(Piyal Bhattacharjee/BCCL)

Thursday, November 14: A thick layer of smog engulfed the national capital as pollution levels surged, with Delhi’s AQI reaching 428 at 8 a.m., according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Bhayender, a local resident, noted the impact on daily life, saying, “Pollution has increased, causing breathing issues and eye irritation. We used to go running, but now we can’t.”

Raunak, a school student, reported continuous coughing due to the intense pollution. “I run daily, but with the rise in pollution, I’ve been coughing constantly, which could harm my lungs. Controlled pollution and more CNG-based vehicles could help, but there’s little cooperation from people,” he shared.

Prateek, another resident, described reduced visibility and a sense of suffocation. “Visibility on the roads has dropped significantly, our eyes burn, and it’s hard to breathe. The government needs to act,” he urged.

Notably, AQI levels in parts of Delhi were alarmingly high: 470 at Anand Vihar, 469 at Wazirpur, 417 at ITO, and 451 at Rohini.

In response, the Central Government, in coordination with CPCB, issued a notification on November 13, exempting certain low-pollution industrial activities from regulations under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981. Exempted sectors include air cooler assembly, bicycle repair, bio-fertilizers, and the production of medical products, among others, provided they inform local Pollution Control Boards in writing.

Meanwhile, the Delhi Airport implemented low visibility procedures for flight operations on Thursday morning due to poor weather conditions. “Low visibility procedures are in effect, and all flights are currently operating normally,” stated airport operator DIAL on X at 7 a.m., advising passengers to check with airlines for updates. On Wednesday, low visibility led to 10 flight diversions and multiple delays.

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