Delhi continues to struggle under a combination of severe air pollution and dense fog, causing disruptions in daily life and raising serious health concerns. Authorities have warned passengers of possible delays at the Indira Gandhi International Airport as visibility dropped sharply due to foggy conditions.
Delhi Airport Issues Passenger Advisory
Update issued at 06:12 hours.
Kind attention to all flyers!#Fog #FogAlert #DelhiAirport pic.twitter.com/qjVGEBhPxu---Advertisement---— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) December 15, 2025
In an advisory issued on social media platform X, Delhi Airport cautioned travellers scheduled to fly on Monday about potential disruptions in flight operations. The airport authority said dense fog may affect departures and arrivals and added that efforts are being made to minimise inconvenience.
Passengers have been advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for the latest flight updates. Airport officials expressed regret for the inconvenience caused but stressed that safety remains the top priority.
Air Quality Slips into ‘Severe Plus’ Category
Alongside fog, Delhi’s air quality has worsened further, slipping into the ‘severe plus’ category. Despite low vehicle movement in the early morning hours, there was no improvement in pollution levels as calm winds trapped pollutants close to the ground.
At 5 am, Delhi’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 460, indicating extremely hazardous breathing conditions.
Several Areas Record Alarming AQI Levels
Pollution levels across the city remained dangerously high. Rohini–Wazirpur recorded an AQI of 500, while Jahangirpuri stood close behind at 498. Other severely polluted areas included R K Puram (483), Sonia Vihar (466), Burari (454), and Mundka (458).
Central and south Delhi areas were also affected, with Mandir Marg and Lodhi Road recording AQI levels of 417, while IIT Delhi stood at 410. Najafgarh recorded 412, Chandni Chowk 438, and Alipur 447, showing that poor air quality was spread evenly across the capital.
Weather Forecast Offers Little Immediate Relief
The weather forecast suggests that fog will continue to dominate the coming days. On December 15, dense fog is expected, especially during the morning and forenoon hours. Daytime temperatures are likely to hover around 23°C, with a minimum near 8°C.
From December 16 to December 20, shallow fog is expected to persist, with daytime temperatures ranging between 23°C and 25°C and nighttime lows between 9°C and 10°C. High humidity levels will continue, though no weather warnings have been issued for the period.
Health Advisory for Residents
Health experts have advised residents, especially children, elderly people, and those with respiratory conditions, to avoid outdoor activities. Prolonged exposure to such air can cause breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and fatigue.
Authorities have urged people to wear masks outdoors, use air purifiers indoors where possible, and limit unnecessary travel until conditions improve. With no immediate change in weather patterns, Delhi is likely to remain under a thick blanket of smog in the days ahead.
