Thick smog has enveloped the National Capital Region (NCR) of Delhi, leading to significant disruptions in daily life and prompting the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) to issue an advisory for travelers. The air quality index (AQI) in the region has been reported to remain in the “very poor” category, raising health concerns among residents and officials alike.
As of December 18, 2025, visibility in various parts of Delhi-NCR has been severely affected, with reports indicating that it dropped to as low as 50 meters in some areas during the early morning hours. The dense fog, combined with high levels of air pollution, has led to delays and diversions of flights at IGIA, one of the busiest airports in India. The airport authorities have advised passengers to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport, as the situation remains fluid.
The deterioration in air quality is attributed to a combination of factors, including weather conditions and ongoing pollution from various sources. Meteorological data indicates that low surface winds have contributed to the stagnation of pollutants in the atmosphere, exacerbating the smog situation. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has noted that the prevailing weather patterns, including high humidity and low temperatures, are conducive to the formation of fog and smog.
The AQI in Delhi-NCR has consistently been a point of concern, particularly during the winter months when pollution levels tend to spike. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in several areas of Delhi has crossed the 300 mark, categorizing it as “very poor.” This level of air quality can have adverse health effects, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
The implications of poor air quality extend beyond immediate health concerns. The persistent smog has prompted calls for more stringent measures to combat pollution in the region. Environmental activists and public health experts have urged the government to implement policies aimed at reducing emissions from vehicles, industrial sources, and construction activities, which are significant contributors to the city’s pollution levels.
In response to the ongoing air quality crisis, the Delhi government has previously implemented measures such as the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme, which restricts the use of private vehicles based on their license plate numbers. However, the effectiveness of such measures has been debated, and many residents continue to express frustration over the lack of long-term solutions to the pollution problem.
The situation in Delhi-NCR is not unique; many urban areas across India face similar challenges related to air quality. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified air pollution as a major public health risk, linking it to millions of premature deaths globally each year. In India, the health impacts of air pollution are particularly pronounced, with studies indicating a significant increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases associated with poor air quality.
As the winter season progresses, the likelihood of continued smog and poor air quality remains high. Experts predict that without substantial intervention, the situation may worsen, particularly if weather conditions do not improve. The government and local authorities are under increasing pressure to take decisive action to address the root causes of pollution and improve air quality for the health and well-being of residents.
In conclusion, the thick smog affecting Delhi-NCR serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing air quality crisis facing the region. With the airport issuing advisories and visibility severely compromised, the immediate impacts are evident. However, the broader implications for public health and environmental policy are equally significant, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat air pollution in one of the world’s most densely populated urban areas. As residents navigate the challenges posed by the smog, the call for effective action to improve air quality continues to resonate among health officials, environmental advocates, and the general public.
