Highlights:
-
Foreign traveler’s video on Delhi’s smog goes viral
-
Visitor says he “could barely see the sun” due to thick smog
-
Delhi’s AQI reached 366 before easing to 316, still in “very poor” range
-
Residents criticize repeated failure to control winter smog
- Advertisement - -
Experts cite stubble burning, traffic emissions, industrial pollution, and weather patterns as major smog drivers
-
Viral reaction renews focus on long-term solutions for seasonal smog in Delhi
.Delhi’s air quality has declined again, with a thick layer of smog covering the city and pushing pollution levels into the “very poor” category. A foreign traveler’s viral reaction to the capital’s smog conditions has intensified public discussion about long-standing air pollution challenges and the lack of effective long-term solutions.
Smog in Delhi Draws Global Attention After Viral Video
A traveler named Shane, visiting India, shared his reaction to the heavy smog while arriving in Delhi. Speaking to ANI, he said, “It’s pretty bad. I came from Agra by bus, and the closer I got to Delhi, the thicker the smog was. It kept getting worse to the point where I could even barely see the sun anymore.” His video showed the city under dense haze, with limited visibility and a muted sky. The clip quickly spread across social media and triggered widespread discussion among residents and observers.
The smog levels have once again placed Delhi in the global spotlight, adding to a growing list of international reactions to seasonal pollution in India’s capital. Photos of landmarks such as Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhavan covered in smog also circulated widely online, reinforcing concerns about public health and urban environmental conditions.
Delhi’s Air Quality Index Rises as Smog Thickens
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded a level of 366 over the weekend, placing it in the “very poor” range. While the AQI later reduced slightly to 316, residents continued to face unhealthy air conditions, with the smog remaining visible across major parts of the city.
Authorities classify AQI above 300 as dangerous for public health, particularly for children, older adults, and individuals with respiratory illnesses. Medical professionals routinely advise limiting outdoor activity during smog episodes, especially in winter months when pollution frequently spikes.
Residents Question Policy Response to Smog Crisis
The viral reaction prompted strong responses from Delhi residents online. Many expressed concern and frustration over repeated seasonal smog and the absence of lasting policy solutions. One social media user wrote, “It’s a huge shame for lawmakers. This problem has persisted for years, yet no solution has been found. What kind of image are we projecting to the world?” Another commented humorously, “Bro landed in Delhi expecting yoga retreats and found a live demo of ‘lungs before and after industrialisation.’” Some residents simply referred to the scene as “Apocalypse.”
Social media commentary reflected a mix of anger, fatigue, and irony, highlighting how smog has become an expected and accepted part of life during winter in Delhi. Several posts criticized inaction despite repeated public campaigns, seasonal restrictions, and court-ordered measures.
Experts Identify Key Causes Behind Persistent Smog
Environmental specialists attribute the seasonal smog to multiple factors, including vehicular emissions, agricultural stubble burning in neighboring states, industrial emissions, and weather patterns that trap pollutants close to the ground. Reduced wind movement and lower temperatures during winter months worsen the situation, allowing particulate matter to settle and accumulate.
Each year, the combination of these factors leads to recurring smog formation, prompting emergency measures such as temporary shutdowns of construction work, traffic restrictions, and school advisories. However, experts and residents note that these measures offer temporary relief rather than a long-term plan to address core sources of pollution.
Public Pressure Grows for Action on Smog
As Delhi heads deeper into the winter season, monitoring stations continue to show elevated pollution levels. Health advisories are being issued, and individuals with respiratory conditions have been urged to take precautions. The viral clip and reactions have added to public pressure on policymakers to implement durable strategies to reduce smog and improve overall air quality.
The comment “I could barely see the sun” has been widely shared as a symbolic expression of Delhi’s smog challenge. The remark underscores not only visibility concerns but also the broader environmental and health implications of prolonged exposure to polluted air.
Outlook: Smog Expected to Persist Through Winter
With winter pollution trends repeating each year, residents and experts expect smog to persist in the coming weeks. The recurring pattern has fueled demand for stronger legislation, enforcement, and regional coordination, especially on vehicle emissions and agricultural burning practices.
While temporary measures continue to be deployed, the episode has once again highlighted that Delhi’s smog crisis requires long-term planning and sustained intervention. The viral video serves as a reminder that smog remains a serious and
