Dense Fog And ‘Very Poor’ Air Quality Persist In Delhi

Delhi continued to struggle with dense fog on Thursday, significantly reducing visibility for several consecutive days. The air quality in the national capital remained in the ‘very poor’ category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 343 at 6 am.

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) highlighted alarmingly high AQI levels across multiple areas:

• RK Puram: 391
• Jahangirpuri: 375
• Rohini: 377
• Vivek Vihar: 372
• Okhla Phase 2: 369
• Anand Vihar: 370

These readings underscore the ongoing health risks, especially for sensitive groups.

Travel Disruptions Intensify Due To Air Quality

Dense fog caused significant travel challenges across the city. Commuters faced difficulties, while flight operations experienced disruptions, particularly for aircraft not equipped with low-visibility landing systems. Airport authorities issued advisories urging passengers to check with airlines for real-time updates and apologized for the inconvenience.

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Train services were also affected, with delays reported for up to 18 departures from the national capital.

IMD Issues Yellow Alert

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert, warning of worsening conditions due to a fresh western disturbance. The disturbance is expected to bring thunderstorms, rain, and more dense fog in the coming days.

Over the past 24 hours, a slight dip in the minimum temperature by 1°C was observed. Thursday’s temperatures ranged from 8-10°C (minimum) to 20-21°C (maximum). The IMD predicts a partly cloudy sky with very light rain during the day.

For December 27, forecasts suggest a predominantly cloudy day with light to moderate rain, lightning, thunderstorms, and gusty winds likely in Delhi and the NCR region by evening. Smog and shallow fog are expected to reappear at night, further reducing visibility.

Delhi’s air quality, classified as ‘very poor,’ continues to pose health risks. The CPCB’s AQI scale categorizes ‘very poor’ levels between 301-400, indicating potential respiratory effects for long-term exposure.

Authorities Advise Caution

Authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor exposure, especially vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Precautionary measures such as wearing masks, using air purifiers indoors, and avoiding strenuous outdoor activities are recommended.

As winter conditions intensify, monitoring air quality and implementing preventive strategies remain crucial to safeguarding public health in the region.