Delhi Airport Implements Low-Visibility Procedures Amid Dense Smog and Pollution
Severe smog and dense fog in Delhi have led to the implementation of low-visibility procedures at Delhi International Airport. The capital’s worsening air quality and adverse weather conditions have caused significant disruptions, affecting both air travel and road traffic. The airport authorities have introduced measures to minimize operational delays and ensure passenger safety as the city grapples with hazardous environmental conditions.
Private airline IndiGo issued a travel advisory late Sunday, warning travelers about possible delays stemming from low visibility. Citing fog as a primary cause of disrupted schedules, the airline urged passengers to plan for longer travel times to the airport and stay informed about their flight statuses. IndiGo emphasized this cautionary step in a social media update on Sunday night, alerting passengers to potential slow-moving traffic due to the weather conditions. Passengers have been strongly advised to check for updated flight information to avoid complications.
In a related update, Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) confirmed the activation of low-visibility measures while assuring the public that flight operations were functioning normally as of late Sunday evening. Given that the Indira Gandhi International Airport is among Asia’s busiest, handling approximately 1,400 flight movements daily, any disruption could lead to a ripple effect, causing cascading delays across its extensive network.
The city’s persistent smog has worsened due to heightened pollution levels. Delhi’s air quality has reached alarming levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) breaching the “severe plus” mark, surpassing a reading of 450. This severe air pollution prompted the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to escalate its response by implementing Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). This level is the most stringent and encompasses an eight-point action strategy aimed at mitigating the pollution crisis, including restrictions on non-essential truck traffic entering Delhi. Only trucks transporting essential goods or providing critical services are exempt from this rule.
The combination of dense fog and severe air pollution has significantly affected daily commuting. Poor visibility has slowed traffic along major routes, exacerbating the already difficult situation for residents. Authorities have issued public health advisories, especially for those with respiratory conditions, urging them to reduce outdoor activities and limit exposure to the hazardous environment.
DIAL and other stakeholders continue to monitor the situation closely, offering updates and recommendations to minimize inconvenience to travelers. Airlines and airport authorities are working to mitigate delays and ensure passenger safety during this period of low visibility and poor air quality.
The poor air quality and fog in Delhi are the result of a complex blend of weather patterns, industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and other contributing factors. Experts attribute the formation of smog to seasonal variations, increased emissions, and burning of crop residue in neighboring states. Despite government regulations and actions aimed at reducing air pollution, conditions have worsened, leading to public outcry and renewed calls for stricter controls and effective pollution management strategies.
In response, authorities have activated the most stringent measures under GRAP Stage IV. Besides restrictions on truck traffic, other measures may include shutting down non-essential industries, banning construction activities, and regulating vehicular movement to reduce pollution levels. Environmental activists and public health experts stress the urgency for comprehensive, sustainable solutions to address the root causes of pollution and prevent recurring crises of this magnitude.
Amid the challenging environmental scenario, residents and travelers are urged to exercise caution. Utilizing masks, air purifiers, and avoiding prolonged outdoor exposure can mitigate health risks during this period. Additionally, travelers passing through Delhi International Airport are advised to stay informed through airline updates and prepare for potential delays due to low visibility.
As Delhi continues to battle deteriorating air quality, coordinated efforts from government agencies, public cooperation, and effective implementation of pollution control measures remain crucial to improve conditions and safeguard public health.