Delhi’s air quality improved marginally to the ‘very poor’ category on Tuesday after three consecutive days of severe pollution, as reduced fog intensity and increased wind speed provided some relief to the national capital.
The 24-hour average Air Quality Index stood at 377 at 8am on Tuesday, down from 427 recorded at 4pm on Monday. The AQI had peaked at 461 on Sunday, marking the second worst December air day on record.
Flight Disruptions Continue
Despite improving conditions, over 200 flights remained delayed at Indira Gandhi International Airport by 8am Tuesday—a cascading effect from Monday’s severe disruptions.
Very dense fog on Monday forced authorities to halt takeoffs for approximately five hours, triggering over 800 delays, more than 220 cancellations, and five diversions. Passengers were left stranded at terminals as last-minute cancellations added to the chaos.
Fog Intensity Eases
Tuesday saw only shallow fog over Delhi, a significant improvement from Monday’s very dense conditions. The change came as wind speeds picked up, helping disperse both fog and pollutants.
However, flight operations continued facing residual impacts as airlines worked to clear backlogs from the previous day’s massive disruptions.
Persistent Winter Challenge
The episode underscores Delhi’s annual winter struggle with the twin challenges of hazardous air quality and dense fog. The combination regularly paralyzes transport networks and poses serious health risks for the capital’s residents during December and January.
Authorities continue monitoring conditions as the region navigates through the peak winter pollution season.
