Delhi woke up to another day of severely disrupted travel and hazardous air as a thick blanket of dense fog enveloped the national capital on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. The persistent low visibility conditions wreaked havoc at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), leading to a massive wave of flight cancellations while the city's air quality continued to languish in the 'very poor' category.
Travel Turmoil at IGI Airport
The operational chaos at Delhi's primary aviation hub was significant. Airport authorities, led by the Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), were forced to cancel a staggering 148 flights due to the unsafe conditions caused by the fog. The disruption was not limited to cancellations alone; two incoming flights had to be diverted to alternate airports as pilots found it impossible to land in the national capital under the prevailing near-zero visibility.
Air Quality and Health Concerns
Parallel to the travel nightmare, the environmental situation remained grim. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi steadfastly held its position in the 'very poor' band. This dual assault of dense fog and polluted air poses serious health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The combination reduces visibility to a few hundred meters and traps harmful pollutants close to the ground, making the simple act of breathing a health hazard for millions of residents.
Impact and Ongoing Challenges
The events of December 31 underscore a recurring winter crisis for Delhi. The flight cancellations and diversions have caused immense inconvenience to thousands of passengers, many of whom were traveling for the New Year holiday. Such large-scale disruptions highlight the vulnerability of transport infrastructure to extreme weather events, which are often compounded by the city's high pollution levels. Authorities continue to advise citizens to minimize outdoor activities, use masks, and stay updated on flight statuses through official airline channels until visibility and air quality show substantial improvement.
