New Delhi, India

Indian national capital Delhi on Sunday (Nov. 17) once again woke up to a suffocating shroud of smog, with air quality plunging to severe levels.

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The city's Air Quality Index (AQI), as per ANI, spiked to 428 at 8 am, firmly placing it in the "severe" category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This toxic haze, caused by a lethal mix of local emissions and crop stubble burning in nearby states, left residents gasping for breath and struggling with poor visibility.

Drone visuals captured at landmarks like New Delhi Railway Station, AIIMS, and Mayur Vihar revealed an unbroken layer of smog cloaking buildings and roads. Hotspots like Patparganj (439), Mundka (463), and Jahangirpuri (466) recorded alarming AQI readings.

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Meanwhile, the Yamuna River's surface remains frothing with toxic foam caused by untreated industrial discharge and chemical-laden detergents. 

The air quality crisis hit public transport too, with Delhi airport activating low-visibility protocols, though flights continued to operate. Officials advised travellers to stay updated with airlines for potential flight disruptions. 

"Low-visibility procedures are in progress at the Delhi airport. All flight operations are presently normal. Passengers are to contact the airline concerned for updated information," posted the airport on its X handle.

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GRAP-III implemented

To tackle the crisis, Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) has been implemented, triggering a series of emergency measures. These include a ban on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles. Violators face steep fines of ₹20,000 (around $237) under the Motor Vehicle Act.

Also read | Stricter GRAP-III pollution curbs imposed as Delhi chokes amid ‘severe’  air quality

Furthermore, road cleaning and water sprinkling on roads along with dust suppressants was intensified, and there is a complete halt on construction and demolition activities.

Mumbai faces foggy morning

Meanwhile, India's financial capital Mumbai woke up to a misty morning with moderate air quality with AQI of 179, far below Delhi’s hazardous levels, though Malad (276) and Worli (250) were areas of concern. With the cityscape enveloped in fog, visibility as per an ANI report reduced to less than 500 metres.

(With inputs from agencies)