Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) woke up to the season’s worst air quality today, with a thick layer of smog enveloping the city. The Air Quality Index (AQI) plummeted to the “severe-plus” category, forcing authorities to enforce stricter pollution control measures. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), the AQI in Delhi was recorded at 481 at 7 am, marking the highest pollution levels so far this season.
The smog, a toxic blend of smoke and fog, severely impacted visibility, with levels dropping to 150 meters at Palam by 5 am. The poor visibility disrupted flight operations and train services, further inconveniencing residents of the national capital.
The worsening air quality has been attributed to “unfavorable” meteorological conditions, which have trapped pollutants in the atmosphere. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), the highest level of pollution control measures, effective from 8 am. GRAP Stage 4 is implemented when the AQI exceeds 450, indicating “severe-plus” air quality.
Under Stage 4 restrictions, trucks entering Delhi are limited to those carrying essential goods or running on clean fuel such as LNG, CNG, or BS-VI diesel. Non-essential light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi are banned, except for electric and clean-fuel vehicles. Delhi-registered BS-IV or older diesel medium and heavy goods vehicles are also prohibited unless involved in essential services.
Additional measures include the suspension of in-person classes for all students except those in grades 10 and 12. Construction activities across Delhi-NCR, including highways, flyovers, power lines, and public infrastructure projects, have been halted. Public and private offices have been advised to operate at 50% capacity, with work-from-home arrangements recommended for the remaining workforce. Central government offices may also adopt similar measures. State governments have been asked to consider closing colleges, limiting non-essential commercial activities, and implementing odd-even vehicle rules.
The CAQM has urged residents, particularly children, senior citizens, and individuals with respiratory or chronic health issues, to stay indoors. Around 38% of Delhi’s pollution this year has been attributed to stubble burning in neighboring Punjab and Haryana. The annual winter smog crisis is exacerbated by cold air trapping dust, emissions, and smoke from these farm fires, a recurring issue that poses significant health risks to millions.
