Ethiopia’s volcanic ash cloud enters India: Is Delhi's already ‘very poor’ air at risk?

NEW DELHI: An ash cloud from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano reached parts of India on Monday evening, according to IndiaMetSky Weather.

The plumes first crossed into Gujarat from the west and then moved quickly over Rajasthan, northwest Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab by around 10 pm, continuing their drift toward the Himalayas and other northern regions.


An ash cloud plume is sweeping across Delhi-NCR, carrying tiny particles of rock, glass, and sulphur dioxide at altitudes of 15,000–45,000 feet.

The question remains: Will Delhi’s air become more toxic?

'May lead to a sudden spike in pollution levels'
The ash cloud is travelling at 100-120 km/h at altitudes of 15,000 to 45,000 feet and contains volcanic ash, sulphur dioxide, and tiny particles of glass and rock.

While it may make the sky appear darker and hazier, experts said it is unlikely to significantly affect Delhi’s air quality.

Sunil Dahiya, founder and lead analyst of think tank EnviroCatalysts, said, “The volcanic ash consists of dust, silica, rocky material, and other minerals and can be hazardous for health. Volcanic ash while passing over the air shed over Delhi may lead to a sudden spike in pollution levels, worsening the air quality further.”

Also read: What is an ash cloud? How volcanic plumes from Ethiopia could impact Indian skies

Anumita Roychowdhury, Executive Director, Research and Advocacy, Centre for Science and Environment, said, “The magnitude of this problem requires immediate assessment. Volcanic ash can travel long distances and affect faraway regions.

"This plume is a toxic mix of fine particles and gases like sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, etc., that can worsen the smog in Delhi that already has a saturated airshed. This toxic haze can affect vulnerable groups and enhance the health risks.”

A thick layer of haze already engulfed the national capital on Tuesday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) remaining in the ‘very poor’ category across Delhi and the National Capital Region, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.

The volcanic ash plume is now moving toward China and is expected to clear Indian airspace by 14:00 GMT (19:30 IST) today.

Also read: Fine glass particles can choke engines, cause mid-air shutdowns; DGCA issues warning

Disruptions in Air Traffic

IndiaMetSky warned that the plume could disrupt air traffic, causing delays and longer travel times.

The eruption of the nearly 10,000-year-dormant Hayli Gubbi volcano began at 8:30 am UTC on Sunday. While the explosive activity has now stopped, the plume continues eastwards.

The Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) said authorities and airlines are closely monitoring the cloud to ensure safe air travel.

Also read: Ethiopian volcanic eruption: How long will the ash cloud linger over India; where is it heading next?

The sudden eruption also sent ash clouds sweeping across the Red Sea toward Oman and Yemen before shifting east, with volcanic activity reported across parts of the Arabian Peninsula. Airlines issued cautionary notices for Middle East flights, though no advisories have been issued for flights to India.

(With inputs from agencies)


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