Toxic smog chokes Delhi: City remains in ‘poor’ category as AQI hits 288; IGI Airport issues travel advisory

NEW DELHI: Air quality in the national capital remained in the poor category on Tuesday, with the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 288, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board’s SAMEER app. A blanket of smog enveloped large parts of the city, with reduced visibility reported around the Indira Gandhi International Airport. Despite the conditions, Delhi Airport said flight operations were continuing under CAT III conditions. “Both arrivals and departures are taking place, though some flights may experience delays or disruptions. Passengers are requested to contact their respective airlines for the latest flight information,” the airport said in a post on X.The AQI around the airport area stood at 180, placing it in the moderate category, as per CPCB data. Pollution levels varied across the city. At ITO, the AQI was recorded at 281, falling in the poor category, according to the SAMEER app. The poor air quality has been attributed to prevailing winter conditions and low wind speeds, which have allowed pollutants to accumulate near the surface, raising concerns for children, the elderly and those with respiratory ailments.