Red Alert In Delhi NCR As AQI Turns Severe, Dense Smog Reduces Visibility To Zero

Delhi-NCR woke up to thick smog and dense fog on Sunday morning, January 18, making visibility extremely poor across many areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for dense fog, warning residents of dangerous travel conditions. In some places, visibility dropped to almost zero, causing serious disruption.

At the Safdarjung observatory, visibility was recorded at 0 metres, while Palam reported visibility of only 100 metres. Famous landmarks like India Gate remained hidden under heavy haze. Along with fog, air pollution levels remained dangerously high, with the AQI touching around 440, raising major health concerns.

IMD Issues Red Alert as Cold Wave Tightens Grip

The IMD said that unusually dense fog has been present since early morning hours across several parts of the capital. Cold wave conditions have further worsened the situation. Minimum temperatures remained between 5°C and 7°C, which is 1.6°C to 3°C below normal for this time of the year.

While moderate fog covered most areas, some locations experienced very dense fog, severely affecting road traffic, train movement and flight operations. Daily commuters faced delays and safety risks due to extremely low visibility.

Air Quality Slips into 'Severe' Category

Delhi's air quality continued to deteriorate, entering the 'Severe' category. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI stood at 439 around 7 am, rising further to 440 later in the morning.

Several areas recorded extremely poor air quality levels. Anand Vihar, Punjabi Bagh, Wazirpur, Ashok Vihar, Bawana, Dwarka Sector 8, Chandni Chowk, RK Puram, ITO and Narela all remained in the severe zone. Such pollution levels pose serious risks, especially for children, elderly people, and those with breathing or heart problems.

GRAP Stage-IV Measures Reimposed Across NCR

With pollution levels worsening rapidly, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reactivated Stage-IV measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi-NCR. These emergency steps are meant to prevent further deterioration and are added on top of existing restrictions under Stages I to III.

Authorities have been directed to strictly enforce anti-pollution rules and increase monitoring to control emissions from vehicles, construction activities and industries.
Health Advisory Issued for Residents

Health experts and authorities have urged people to avoid outdoor activities, wear masks when stepping outside, and follow official advisories. The combination of toxic air and dense fog increases the risk of respiratory problems and other health issues.
Residents have also been advised to work from home where possible and reduce unnecessary travel until conditions improve.