North India Faces Severe Air Pollution and Smog Disruptions
• Northern India is experiencing severe air pollution, with Bathinda, Punjab, ranking as the most polluted city globally with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 977, classified as 'Hazardous'. Other cities in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh also feature in the top 10 most polluted cities worldwide, all with AQI levels exceeding
• The pollution is attributed to a combination of factors, including vehicle emissions, industrial activities, dust, crop residue burning, and household fuel use. Winter weather conditions, such as low temperatures, weak winds, and low mixing heights, exacerbate the situation by trapping pollutants. The smog has also led to significant disruptions in air travel, particularly at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, where low visibility has caused flight delays and diversions. CAT III operations have been implemented to manage the situation.
Impact & Risks
The hazardous air quality poses severe health risks to the entire population, with children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing heart or lung conditions being the most vulnerable. The dense smog has also disrupted air travel, with flights at Delhi's airport facing delays and diversions due to low visibility. Ground transportation, including train services, has been affected as well, with delays of up to 6-7 hours reported. The high levels of PM2.5 particles, which can penetrate the lungs and bloodstream, are a significant concern for public health.
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