Severe Air Pollution Chokes City, Normal Life Affected

Toxic Smog Engulfs Capital, Flights Cancelled and Traffic Disrupt

The national capital woke up to a thick blanket of toxic smog on Tuesday, severely reducing visibility and throwing air, road, and daily life into disarray. Dense haze covered large parts of the city during the early morning hours, leading to the cancellation and diversion of several flights at the airport.According to airport officials, poor visibility conditions caused delays and cancellations of more than 200 flights, while many others were rescheduled.

Passengers faced long waiting hours as airlines struggled to manage operations amid rapidly changing weather conditions.

The smog also affected road traffic, with multiple vehicle pile-ups reported on highways and arterial roads around the capital.

Authorities urged commuters to avoid non-essential travel and maintain safe distances while driving.

Traffic police increased patrolling in accident-prone zones to manage the situation.Air quality levels remained in the “severe” category, raising serious health concerns, especially for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory illnesses. Hospitals reported a rise in patients complaining of breathing difficulties, eye irritation, and coughing

Environmental experts attributed the worsening air quality to a combination of factors, including vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, construction dust, and seasonal weather conditions that trap pollutants close to the ground.

The government is expected to review emergency pollution-control measures, including restrictions on construction activities and vehicle usage.

Residents have been advised to stay indoors as much as possible, use masks when stepping out, and follow health advisories until air quality improves.