Delhi residents woke up to a thick blanket of smog on Sunday morning, January 18, 2026. The dense fog severely reduced visibility across the national capital region. Many areas reported difficult travel conditions due to the poor air quality.
Air Quality Reaches Severe Levels
The Air Quality Index in Delhi recorded a worrying 439 at 7 AM. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board confirmed this measurement. The AQI remained firmly in the severe category throughout the morning hours.
Visuals from Akshardham Temple showed the iconic structure barely visible through the dense fog. Vasant Kunj area also experienced similar visibility challenges on the chilly winter morning. The severe cold wave conditions compounded the atmospheric haze.
Airport Issues Passenger Advisory
Indira Gandhi International Airport responded to the low visibility conditions with immediate measures. The airport authority issued a formal advisory for all passengers traveling through Delhi.
The advisory clearly stated that Low Visibility Procedures were currently in progress. While all flight operations remained normal, passengers received specific instructions. Travelers must contact their respective airlines for the latest flight information and updates.
Airport officials confirmed that runway visibility had decreased significantly. They emphasized the importance of checking with airlines before heading to the airport.
GRAP Stage 4 Measures Return
Delhi-NCR witnessed the return of strict anti-pollution measures on Saturday. Authorities implemented Stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan as air quality deteriorated.
The capital recorded an average AQI of 400 on Saturday afternoon. This placed Delhi in the very poor category, dangerously close to severe levels. The reading showed a sharp increase from Friday's AQI of 354.
Neighboring areas reflected similar concerning trends. Noida registered an AQI of 388 on Saturday, while Gurgaon logged 360. Both readings indicated worsening air quality conditions across the region.
Official Explanation for Deterioration
A senior official from the Commission for Air Quality Management provided context. The official cited multiple factors contributing to the sudden air quality decline.
Western disturbance patterns created highly unfavorable weather conditions. Meteorological factors prevented proper dispersal of pollutants. The combination of these elements resulted in the rapid AQI increase from 400 to 428 within hours.
The official emphasized that weather conditions remained challenging for pollution control. Lack of wind movement and temperature inversions trapped pollutants close to the ground.
Residents reported difficulty breathing and reduced visibility for morning commutes. The smog blanket affected transportation, daily activities, and overall quality of life in the capital region.
