Delhi Chokes: AQI Soars Past 440, Severe Smog Triggers GRAP Stage-IV

• Delhi's air quality sharply deteriorated to 'severe' levels, with overall AQI at 387 and key areas like Ghazipur, ITO, Palam exceeding 440.
• Authorities activated GRAP Stage-IV, the most stringent emergency measure, across Delhi-NCR due to the escalating crisis.
• Dense fog and smog severely disrupted operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport, leading to flight delays and cancellations.
• Health advisories urge vulnerable groups (children, elderly, those with respiratory issues) to minimize outdoor exposure due to severe health risks.
• Transport (18.3%) and industrial sources (9.2%) are major contributors, with significant pollution also coming from neighboring Haryana districts like Jhajjar (12.3%) and Sonipat (8.8%).

Why It Matters: Delhi faces a severe air quality crisis, triggering highest emergency measures and health warnings.