Home / Environment / Delhi Smog Drives Tourists to Rohtang Pass Amidst Traffic Jams
Delhi Smog Drives Tourists to Rohtang Pass Amidst Traffic Jams
17 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Delhi's severe air quality is pushing residents towards Himachal Pradesh.
- Rohtang Pass is experiencing significant traffic jams due to the influx.
- Delhi's AQI is frequently in the 'very poor' to 'severe' categories.
A thick blanket of smog over Delhi has prompted many residents to temporarily relocate to the hills of Himachal Pradesh, inadvertently causing significant traffic jams near Rohtang Pass. Clips shared on social media highlight extensive queues of vehicles, raising questions about the unusual surge in traffic during a period without snowfall or holidays.
On Wednesday, Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of nearly 300, classifying it as 'very poor.' The Delhi-NCR region's air quality has worsened post-Diwali, with stagnant weather and low wind speeds contributing to hazardous levels above 400 in several areas. This toxic smog is causing widespread health issues, including respiratory problems and burning eyes.
In response to the crisis, authorities have deployed mist sprayers at pollution hotspots. Delhi's Chief Minister's remarks on pollution management drew criticism, with accusations of hiding data and downplaying the severity of the air quality situation, which is classified as 'severe' when AQI exceeds 400.
