Dense Smog Engulfs Delhi; AQI Slips to Severe Category at 418
New Delhi: A thick layer of fog engulfed several parts of the national capital on Monday morning, sharply reducing visibility and worsening air quality across Delhi-NCR. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 418, placing it in the ‘severe’ category.
According to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI in ITO zone was 434 while Rafi Marg recorded an AQI of 417. Areas around Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in Pandav Nagar reported an AQI of 455, indicating extremely poor air quality.
Many other parts of the capital also showed alarmingly high pollution levels. Anand Vihar recorded AQI of 462, Ashok Vihar 473, Bawana 448, Burari 460, Chandni Chowk 454, Dwarka Sector-8 427, Mundka 467, Narela 437, Punjabi Bagh 434, RK Puram 439, Rohini 437 and Wazirpur 472. All these areas remained in the ‘severe’ category, highlighting serious health risks.
The ITO line experienced near-zero visibility in the morning, resulting in slow movement of traffic and disruptions in normal vehicle movement. Cold wave conditions combined with dense fog also affected air travel; Many flights were delayed due to poor visibility at Indira Gandhi International Airport.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature in Delhi on Monday was recorded at 8 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature is expected to reach 25 degrees Celsius later in the day.
In response to worsening air quality, the Commission on Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Saturday resumed Phase IV measures under the Phased Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).
“Considering the current trend of air quality and relevant factors and with a view to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region, the CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP unanimously decides to initiate all actions envisaged in Phase-IV of the current GRAP – ‘Severe+’ Air Quality (Delhi AQI > 450) with immediate effect in the entire NCR as a proactive measure,” the CAQM decision said.
The order also added that NCR Pollution Control Boards and other relevant agencies are directed to step up preventive measures to prevent further deterioration in air quality.
As severe pollution, cold wave conditions and dense fog persist, authorities have urged citizens to limit outdoor activities, follow health advice and take precautions against hazardous air quality.
Meanwhile, India’s financial capital Mumbai also woke up to thick fog on Monday morning, with temperatures ranging between 17 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
