Flights delayed in Delhi amid dense fog, AQI in ‘very poor’ category
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Pollution (air, water, plastic)· Prelims·
Why in news
The Sub-Committee on the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) convened a meeting to address Delhi's 'very poor' AQI and dense fog causing flight delays.
Background
On January 17, 2026, dense fog at Indira Gandhi International Airport caused flight delays and low visibility for road and rail traffic. The CPCB reported 'very poor' AQI levels, with expectations of a shift to the 'severe' category.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyIMD: India Meteorological Department reported the temperature and visibility data.
- BodyCPCB: Central Pollution Control Board indicated the 'very poor' AQI levels.
- SchemeGRAP: Graded Response Action Plan is the mechanism used to manage air quality in Delhi-NCR.
- FactAQI status: Reported as 'very poor' on January 17, 2026.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the institutional and logistical challenges in implementing the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to mitigate seasonal air pollution in the National Capital Region.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Inter-agency coordination: Delays in synchronized enforcement between CPCB, IMD, and local municipal bodies.
- Logistical bottlenecks: Impact of low visibility on aviation safety and regional transport infrastructure.
- Policy trade-offs: Balancing industrial/construction activity with emergency air quality mandates under GRAP.
Keywords: Air Quality Index · Graded Response Action Plan · Atmospheric Visibility · Inter-agency Coordination · Pollution Mitigation
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