Indigo Airlines Issues Advisory Amid Fog in Delhi as Air Quality Deteriorates to 'Severe+'

New Delhi, November 18: Indigo Airlines has issued a travel advisory for passengers traveling to or from Delhi due to dense fog conditions impacting visibility on Sunday.

In a post on X, the airline urged passengers to account for potential delays caused by fog and to verify their flight status before leaving for the airport.

“Fog is currently affecting visibility in Delhi, which may result in slow-moving traffic and delays in flight schedules. We recommend allowing extra travel time and checking flight status before starting your journey. Safe travels!” the advisory stated.

Delhi's Air Quality Declines Sharply

The advisory comes as Delhi's air quality plunged into the 'Severe+' category on Sunday, prompting the Delhi government to activate Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) starting Monday.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s daily average Air Quality Index (AQI) had risen sharply to 441 by 4 PM and further escalated to 457 by 7 PM. These alarming levels triggered an emergency meeting of the GRAP Sub-Committee.

“Keeping in view the prevailing trend of deteriorating air quality of NCR, and to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region, the Sub-Committee today has taken the call to invoke all actions as envisaged under Stage-IV of GRAP - 'Severe+' Air Quality (Delhi's AQI > 450), w.e.f. 08:00 AM of 18.11.2024 (tomorrow) in the entire NCR,” stated the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM).

Stage IV GRAP Measures

The Stage IV of GRAP introduces stringent measures to mitigate the pollution crisis, building upon existing actions under Stages I, II, and III. These include:

• Banning the entry of non-essential trucks into Delhi, except for those carrying essential goods or providing critical services.
• Suspension of construction and demolition activities except for essential projects.
• Strict enforcement of pollution-control measures for industries.

Understanding GRAP

The Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is a protocol for tackling air pollution in the National Capital Region (NCR). It categorizes air quality levels into four stages:

1. Stage I (Poor): AQI 201-300
2. Stage II (Very Poor): AQI 301-400
3. Stage III (Severe): AQI 401-450
4. Stage IV (Severe+): AQI > 450

As Delhi braces for worsening air quality conditions, citizens and travelers are advised to follow the recommended precautions and stay updated on advisories from relevant authorities.