Delhi’s Air Quality Remains “Critical,” Toxic Smog Disrupts Flights and Train Operations

The Delhi and National Capital Region (NCR) continued to report air quality in the “very poor” category on Monday, December 22. With a layer of toxic smog shrouding the area, travel disruptions are anticipated due to interruptions in flight and train services.

As of 8:05 am, Delhi recorded an AQI of 366, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)’s Sameer mobile app. One of the 40 pollution monitoring stations in Delhi was malfunctioning on December 22.

#WATCH | Delhi | Footage from the Anand Vihar area reveals a dense layer of toxic smog enveloping the national capital.

The AQI (Air Quality Index) in the area is reported to be 402, categorized as ‘severe’, as stated by CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board).

CAQM (Commission for Air Quality… pic.twitter.com/WpqLQUPDrR

— ANI (@ANI) December 22, 2025

At the Anand Vihar station, the AQI hit 404, while Bawana registered an AQI of 408. Other stations like Jahangirpuri (403), Mundka (401), Narela (418), Rohini (402), and Wazirpur (405) fell into the severe category.

A thick layer of toxic smog was observed enveloping many parts of the city, with low visibility reported in ITO, Sarai Kale Khan, Anand Vihar, Ghazipur, and India Gate, among others.

#WATCH | Delhi | Drone footage from NH 24 shows a dense layer of toxic smog blanketing the city. pic.twitter.com/CNiPK49Ohk

— ANI (@ANI) December 22, 2025

According to news agency PTI, dense fog has interrupted train operations in the city, with multiple trains rescheduled at the New Delhi Railway Station.

However, Delhi Airport reported that flight operations continued as normal despite the dense fog in the area.

#WATCH | Delhi | A dense layer of toxic smog covers the runway at Indira Gandhi International Airport. pic.twitter.com/hja3Y3AL4b

— ANI (@ANI) December 22, 2025

In a notice on X (formerly Twitter), the Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) stated, “Low visibility measures are underway at Delhi Airport. All flight operations are operating normally.”

Passenger Advisory issued at 08:00 hours.

For real-time winter travel updates, click here: https://t.co/KkKldKUlLQ#DelhiAirport #PassengerAdvisory #DELAdvisory pic.twitter.com/moaVxaNv1P

— Delhi Airport (@DelhiAirport) December 22, 2025

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning that thick haze is expected to persist for the next two days across North India.