Sun Nov 17 17:37:32 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Choked by Severe Air Pollution, Hundreds of Flights Disrupted

**New Delhi, India** – Delhi is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis, impacting hundreds of flights at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI). For the fifth consecutive day, the Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the “severe” category, reaching 428 on Wednesday. The dense smog resulted in near-zero visibility (800 meters), causing delays to 107 flights and cancellations of three, according to Flightradar24. Delhi Airport and aviation authorities have alerted passengers to potential disruptions.

Several monitoring stations across the National Capital Region (NCR) reported AQI levels exceeding 400. Areas like Bawana (471), Ashok Vihar and Jahangirpuri (466), and Mundka and Wazirpur (463) were classified as “severe plus.” Experts warn of increased respiratory and eye problems, along with other health risks, for Delhi residents. Authorities have hinted at potential restrictions on non-essential construction and demolition activities if the situation worsens.

While Delhi’s air quality remains critically poor, neighboring cities showed slight improvements: Noida (308), Gurugram (307), Ghaziabad (372), and Faridabad (260). However, the overall situation remains a cause for serious concern.

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