Capital Struggles With Low Visibility Amid Thick Haze
Dense haze reduces visibility, affecting commute and air quality.
The national capital was enveloped in dense haze and low visibility on Tuesday, causing widespread disruption to daily life and raising concerns over public health and safety. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in several parts of the city fell into the “poor” to “very poor” category, prompting authorities to issue advisories for residents, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.
Commuters struggled as the thick smog significantly reduced visibility on major roads and highways, leading to slower traffic movement and multiple minor accidents. The Delhi Traffic Police urged motorists to use fog lights, maintain safe distances, and exercise extra caution while driving. Several flight operations were also delayed at the city’s airports due to reduced visibility, causing inconvenience to passengers and airlines alike.
Experts attribute the worsening air quality and haze to a combination of factors, including stubble burning in neighbouring states, industrial emissions, vehicular pollution, and unfavourable meteorological conditions such as low wind speeds and temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, creating dense layers of smog that linger for days. Environmental analysts noted that this pattern is common in late winter and early spring, often exacerbating health risks and visibility issues in Delhi and surrounding regions.
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In response, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has intensified monitoring of air quality across the city and is coordinating with authorities in Uttar Pradesh and Haryana to manage stubble burning incidents. Measures to reduce particulate matter in the air include water sprinkling on roads, restrictions on construction activities, and increased issuance of public advisories. Authorities also encouraged residents to limit outdoor activities, wear protective masks, and use air purifiers in homes and workplaces.
Schools in affected areas are adjusting schedules, with some postponing outdoor sports and physical education activities to safeguard students from prolonged exposure. Medical experts have highlighted the risks of respiratory irritation, eye discomfort, and exacerbation of chronic conditions due to the sustained presence of fine particulate matter in the air. Residents, meanwhile, expressed frustration over the recurring haze, noting its impact on daily commutes, outdoor exercise, and overall quality of life.
Despite ongoing mitigation efforts, officials warn that the haze and poor visibility may persist for several days, especially if stubble burning and pollution sources continue unchecked. They reiterated the importance of public cooperation in reducing emissions and following safety guidelines. With seasonal changes expected to bring gradual improvement, authorities remain vigilant, stressing that early precautions and adherence to health advisories are critical to minimizing the impact of Delhi’s persistent air quality challenges.
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