Mon Dec 15 03:53:21 UTC 2025: Summary:
Delhi and surrounding areas are experiencing “severe” air quality due to a dense smog, with the AQI reaching 456 on Monday morning, close to Sunday’s second-worst record of 461. The poor visibility has led to flight delays and cancellations at Delhi Airport. Authorities have implemented stricter pollution control measures, including construction bans and work-from-home directives, and school closures.
News Article:
Delhi Chokes Under ‘Severe’ Smog, Flights Disrupted
New Delhi, December 15, 2025 – A thick blanket of smog has enveloped Delhi and its neighboring regions, plunging the air quality into the “severe” category and causing widespread disruptions. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital reached 456 at 6 AM today, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), marking the second-worst AQI of the season. Sunday’s AQI stood at an alarming 461.
Visibility has been severely reduced, with videos showing a dense layer of toxic air blanketing areas like Akshardham, where the AQI soared to 493. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an ‘orange’ alert, warning of continued dense smog conditions.
The poor visibility has significantly impacted flight operations at Delhi Airport. According to FlightRadar24, 110 departures and 37 arrivals have been delayed. Delhi Airport has advised travelers to contact their respective airlines for the latest updates, with IndiGo and Air India also issuing advisories warning of potential cancellations and delays.
In response to the deteriorating air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), the most stringent measures to control air pollution. These include a ban on all construction and demolition activities in Delhi-NCR. The Delhi government has also directed 50% of staff in government and private offices to work from home and ordered schools to conduct hybrid classes.
First Piper 