New Delhi is grappling with a severe air pollution crisis, prompting foreign diplomatic missions to issue official health advisories to their citizens residing in or traveling to the national capital region. The alarming deterioration in air quality has led the Singapore High Commission and the United Kingdom to urge caution.
Singapore High Commission's Urgent Advisory
The Singapore High Commission released a specific advisory on December 13, highlighting that the Indian Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) had activated GRAP Stage IV, the highest level under the Graded Response Action Plan. This stage imposes heavy restrictions on construction and industrial activities while encouraging schools and offices to adopt a hybrid mode of operation.
The commission strongly urged Singaporean nationals in the Delhi-NCR area to follow the directives of local authorities. It specifically advised people to stay indoors, a precaution deemed especially critical for children and individuals suffering from respiratory or cardiac conditions. For essential outdoor movement, the use of masks was recommended.
Furthermore, the advisory pointed to the dense fog enveloping the region, warning that flight operations to and from Delhi were likely to be disrupted due to low visibility. Travelers were advised to check directly with their airlines for updates.
United Kingdom's Travel Health Notice
Separately, the United Kingdom also updated its guidance for travelers heading to north India. Its advisory noted that cities in the region were experiencing extremely high levels of pollution. It identified children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions as groups that could be especially affected.
The UK government suggested that individuals who are pregnant or have heart or lung conditions might want to consult a medical practitioner before undertaking travel to the affected areas.
Implications and Local Response
The issuance of advisories by foreign consulates underscores the severity of the ongoing environmental and public health challenge in India's capital. The activation of GRAP Stage IV reflects the administration's emergency response to the hazardous air, which recurs annually but continues to pose significant risks.
The combined warnings highlight a critical situation where vulnerable populations are at immediate risk and daily life, including travel and education, is being substantially disrupted. The focus remains on minimizing exposure and adhering to the stringent measures now in force.
