Delhi-NCR Shrouded in Heavy Fog as IMD Sounds Red Alert
Delhi and the National Capital Region woke up to a thick blanket of fog on Saturday morning. The dense smog has severely reduced visibility across key areas like Noida, Gurugram, and Ghaziabad. The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert in response to this worsening air pollution crisis.
Visibility Plummets in Major Cities
Residents reported near-zero visibility in many parts of Delhi-NCR. The fog has disrupted daily life, affecting transportation and outdoor activities. Videos from the region show vehicles moving slowly with their headlights on even during daytime hours.
IMD officials stated that the current conditions pose significant health risks. They advised people to avoid unnecessary travel and wear masks when stepping outside. The department attributes the dense fog to a combination of low temperatures and high pollution levels.
Air Quality Reaches Dangerous Levels
The air quality index has entered the severe category across multiple monitoring stations. This persistent smog layer is trapping pollutants close to the ground, creating hazardous breathing conditions.
- Noida recorded some of the worst visibility levels
- Gurugram experienced similar foggy conditions
- Ghaziabad reported near-zero visibility in several areas
Local authorities have been put on high alert to manage the situation. They are monitoring the air quality continuously and may implement additional measures if conditions don't improve.
Health Advisory Issued for Residents
Medical experts warn that prolonged exposure to such polluted air can cause respiratory problems. They recommend that vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly, stay indoors as much as possible.
The fog is expected to persist for the next few days according to weather forecasts. IMD will continue updating its alerts based on real-time monitoring of atmospheric conditions.
