Delhi is currently grappling with a severe smog situation, yet the city saw several fitness events, including marathons and cyclothons, take place over the weekend. This has drawn sharp criticism on social media, with many questioning the decision to host such activities when the Air Quality Index (AQI) has reached hazardous levels, exceeding 400.
One viral post pointedly asked, “Marathon in 400 AQI. At least worry a bit about our country’s image in the world. Doing such stunts is not useful for anyone. Who are these people allowing such things to happen? Where is our conscience?” This comment came in response to a video showing actors flagging off the Sekhon IAF Marathon 2025.
Fellow participants and concerned citizens expressed their dismay. “As a Marathoner, I concur that this is hazardous, and it is not advisable to run outdoors in Delhi NCR currently. Cold, Cough and Fever will be the immediate after effects of running in this worst AQI,” shared one X user. Others questioned the authorities’ decisions, asking, “Where is our intelligence and what happened to GRAP?”
The sentiment was echoed by many who felt that holding such events was akin to endangering public health. “If people don’t care about their health and well-being, why would the government bother? Running a marathon in this pollution is nothing short of suicidal, and yet people choose to turn up,” another user remarked.
The Indian Air Force marathon, flagged off from Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, was just one of several events. Over the weekend, Delhi also hosted a ‘cyclothon’ as part of Vigilance Awareness Week and a ‘Fit India Sunday on Cycle’ event, a nationwide initiative promoting cycling. While these events aim to boost fitness and national spirit, they starkly contrast with the reality of Delhi’s deteriorating air quality, where even simple outdoor activities can pose health risks.
Delhi’s air quality remains in the ‘very poor’ category, with many areas recording ‘severe’ levels above 400. Experts predict this situation will persist for at least a few more days, raising further concerns about the appropriateness of these public gatherings.