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Air Pollution & Vision Dropped in India

REPORTS - منذ 30 يوم

India Faces An Environmental Challenges

South Eye | Report - Exclusive

As of January 2025, northern India, particularly New Delhi, has been engulfed by severe fog and smog conditions, creating significant disruptions across various transportation systems and raising concerns about public health and safety. The dense fog, combined with air pollution, has affected air, rail, and road travel, causing widespread delays and cancellations.

At the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, over 214 flights faced delays, and 30 were canceled as runway visibility dropped to near zero. Airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet issued alerts, advising passengers to check flight statuses before traveling to the airport. Several flights were diverted to alternative airports, such as Jaipur, Mumbai, and Hyderabad, further complicating travel plans for thousands of passengers. Rail services also bore the brunt of these weather conditions, with numerous trains running behind schedule. Commuters faced long delays, and Indian Railways advised travelers to verify train schedules before embarking on their journeys. On the roads, reduced visibility caused slower traffic flow and heightened the risk of accidents, prompting authorities to issue advisories for motorists to exercise caution and use fog lights.

The impact of these conditions extended beyond transportation, as the health risks associated with the combination of fog and smog became a growing concern. The Air Quality Index (AQI) in New Delhi soared to hazardous levels, significantly exceeding safe thresholds. The city's AQI reading reached 351, categorized as "very poor," posing severe risks to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Authorities urged residents to limit outdoor activities, wear protective masks, and use air purifiers indoors to mitigate the effects of the toxic air.

This smog phenomenon results from a mix of weather patterns and pollution sources. During winter, low temperatures and high humidity in northern India often lead to dense fog. When this natural fog combines with pollutants from vehicles, industrial emissions, and crop-burning activities in nearby regions, it transforms into smog, exacerbating visibility issues and health hazards. The ongoing use of firecrackers and reliance on fossil fuels further aggravate the situation, making it a recurring problem during this time of year.

In response to these challenges, authorities implemented several immediate measures. Airlines coordinated closely with airport officials to manage flight schedules and minimize delays. Indian Railways deployed additional staff to assist passengers and ensure smoother operations during train delays. On the roads, traffic police increased their presence, enforcing safety measures and assisting drivers in navigating through the low-visibility conditions. Health advisories were issued to the public, emphasizing the importance of wearing masks, using air purifiers, and seeking medical attention for respiratory issues.

However, the situation underscores the urgent need for long-term strategies to address the root causes of smog and fog-related disruptions. Reducing air pollution through stricter regulations on vehicle and industrial emissions, promoting cleaner energy sources, and enforcing bans on crop-burning practices are critical steps toward improving air quality. Upgrading infrastructure, such as advanced landing systems at airports and better railway signaling, can enhance operational efficiency during low-visibility conditions. Public awareness campaigns are also essential to educate citizens on the dangers of smog and encourage behaviors that contribute to reducing pollution, such as carpooling and using public transportation.

The severe fog and smog conditions in northern India are a stark reminder of the challenges posed by urban pollution and climate variability. While immediate actions have mitigated some impacts, a comprehensive approach involving government, industry, and citizens is necessary to ensure a healthier, safer environment for the future.