Delhi Pollution: As winter approaches, Delhi and its nearby areas are suffering a major air pollution crisis as usual. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has shot up past 400, putting the area in the “severe” group. The thick smog has caused major problems with air, train, and road travel, which raises serious health concerns, especially for people with breathing problems, children, and older adults. The dense fog makes it even harder to see, which makes travelling dangerous.
Travel and Daily Life Changes
Indira Gandhi International Airport has been affected by the pollution spike, with flights being delayed or cancelled because of low visibility. As cars carefully make their way through streets filled with fog, traffic has slowed down. Buses and trains are also late. Authorities have told people to avoid travelling when it’s not needed and to be very careful when they commute. To lower the risk of exposure, a lot of schools and businesses now allow people to work from home.
Why Pollution Went Up
Pollution has gone up because of a lot of different things, say experts.
When it is cold in the winter, pollution gets trapped near the ground and can’t spread out.
Emissions from vehicles and dust from building sites are still major causes.
If there is no rain and the winds are calm, smog can stay for days.
Even with the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) emergency steps, the changes are only short-term, and the pollution usually goes back to normal pretty fast.
When Should We Expect Relief?
Short-term growth depends on good weather, like wind or rain. Cleaner fuels, stricter emission controls, better public transportation, and effective dust management are needed for the long run. Without ongoing action, the air quality may stay bad until the end of February. It’s a good idea for people who live in the area to check the AQI, wear masks when they are outside, and use air filters when they are inside.
