Dense smog engulfs Delhi, PM Modi’s overseas departure delayed; AQI crosses 500

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled departure for an overseas three-nation tour of Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman was delayed on Monday as dense fog and toxic smog severely reduced visibility, disrupting flight operations across Delhi while the capital continued to record one of its worst air quality levels of the season.

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board showed the Air Quality Index in Delhi at 456 at 6 am, marking the season’s second-worst reading.

Four air quality monitoring stations in Delhi recorded the maximum measurable pollution level of 500 on Sunday, underscoring the severity of the smog crisis as nearly the entire city remained in the ‘severe’ to ‘severe-plus’ range. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board showed that Wazirpur, Rohini and Ashok Vihar touched the AQI ceiling, while 38 of the capital’s 39 active stations reported dangerously high pollution levels, with actual exposure likely exceeding official readings as AQI measurements are capped at 500.

Visuals from several parts of the city showed a dense cover of toxic air. At Akshardham, the AQI was recorded at 493. Poor visibility was also reported at the Barapulla flyover, where the AQI stood at 433, and at Barakhamba Road, where it reached 474.

The reduced visibility had a direct impact on aviation, with flight tracking website FlightRadar24 showing 110 departures and 37 arrivals delayed at Delhi Airport.

#WATCH | Delhi | Visuals around Ghazipur area this morning as a layer of toxic smog blankets the city; GRAP 4 invoked in the national capital.

AQI (Air Quality Index) around the area is 493, categorised as ‘Severe’, as claimed by CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board). pic.twitter.com/FSFnKnDDgb

— ANI (@ANI) December 15, 2025

Airlines issue advisories amid delays

Delhi Airport issued an advisory for passengers, stating, “Due to dense fog, flight operations may experience disruptions. We are working closely with all stakeholders to minimise inconvenience to passengers. For the latest flight updates, passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines. We sincerely regret any inconvenience caused.”

IndiGo also cautioned travellers about possible delays. “Low visibility and fog over #Delhi will impact flight schedules. We’re keeping a close watch on the weather and doing our best to get you where you need to be, safely and smoothly. We request you to stay updated on your flight status via our website or app. Be assured, our teams are here to assist you at every step and ensure support,” the airline said.

In another post, IndiGo urged passengers to factor in extra travel time to reach the airport due to slower road traffic caused by the haze. “Our teams are closely monitoring the situation and will keep you updated. As conditions improve, we will continue departures with safety at the forefront,” it added.

Air India, in its advisory, said, “Poor visibility due to dense fog is impacting flight operations in Delhi and parts of Northern India.”

#TravelAdvisory

Poor visibility due to dense fog is impacting flight operations in Delhi and parts of Northern India. Please check your flight status at: https://t.co/6ajUZVeeIM before heading to the airport.

— Air India (@airindia) December 15, 2025