The onset of winter has brought a familiar scourge to North India—toxic smog that has left residents gasping for breath. Satellite imagery paints a grim picture, with a vast white blanket stretching across the region, from Delhi all the way down to Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh and extending well into Eastern Uttar Pradesh.
North India, especially Delhi covered in toxic smog
This year, the smog has appeared early, settling in earnest by the end of December and continuing through January. A comparison of satellite images from this year and last year reveals the alarming scale of the problem, with the smog cover this year appearing significantly thicker.
The impact on air quality has been severe, with Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing the 400 mark – well above the approved limit of 60. In a statement, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) noted, “Today, Delhi’s daily average AQI clocked 418 as per the 4 PM AQI Bulletin by CPCB.”
Flights delayed due to smog in Delhi
The poor visibility has also disrupted flight operations, with the Indira Gandhi International Airport reporting zero visibility at 8:30 am and a Runway Visual Range varying between 125 and 500 metres.
However, the CAQM has expressed cautious optimism, stating, “The situation is expected to improve by tomorrow morning, owing to stronger winds.” The pollution board expects the AQI to move back to the ‘Very Poor’ category, but the persistent threat of stubble burning in neighbouring states remains a formidable challenge.
