Flights Diverted in Delhi Due to Smog and Low Visibility
On Wednesday, eight flights were diverted from Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi because of low visibility caused by thick smog. Seven flights were redirected to Jaipur and one to Lucknow. The air quality index (AQI) in Delhi dropped to 361, categorized as ‘Very Poor’.
Residents have been experiencing eye irritation, breathlessness, and low visibility on roads. Upendra Singh, a local resident, expressed concerns about the increasing pollution and its effects on health.
The AQI in Anand Vihar was recorded at 399, 382 in Punjabi Bagh, and 376 in Ashok Vihar at 8 a.m., according to the Central Pollution Control Board. A senior citizen highlighted the health issues faced by him and his grandchildren, attributing them to vehicle emissions and stubble burning.
The Supreme Court of India reiterated that living in a pollution-free environment is a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. The court criticized the authorities for not enforcing the ban on firecrackers during Diwali, which affects citizens’ right to health.
Doubts Revealed
Smog -: Smog is a type of air pollution that looks like a thick fog. It is caused by smoke and other pollutants mixing with fog, making it hard to see and breathe.
Low Visibility -: Low visibility means that it is hard to see things clearly because of fog, smog, or other weather conditions. This can make it difficult for planes to land safely.
Indira Gandhi International Airport -: Indira Gandhi International Airport is the main airport in New Delhi, India. It is one of the busiest airports in the country.
Air Quality Index (AQI) -: The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a number used to tell how clean or polluted the air is. A higher number means the air is more polluted and can be harmful to health.
Anand Vihar and Punjabi Bagh -: Anand Vihar and Punjabi Bagh are areas in New Delhi. They are used as reference points to measure air quality in the city.
Supreme Court -: The Supreme Court is the highest court in India. It makes important decisions about laws and rights in the country.
Firecracker Bans -: Firecracker bans are rules that stop people from using firecrackers. This is done to reduce pollution and noise, especially during festivals.
Stubble Burning -: Stubble burning is when farmers set fire to the leftover parts of crops after harvest. This practice creates a lot of smoke and contributes to air pollution.
