6 hours Ago By Avni Arya
Delhi’s air quality has once again dipped to alarming levels, slipping back into the ‘severe’ category on Sunday with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 427 at 7 am. The primary pollutant remains PM2.5, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The thick layers of smog blanketing the city added to the biting cold, making the conditions even harsher for residents. Winter Chill Adds to Air Quality WoesAs Delhi shivered under cold wave conditions, the minimum temperature recorded at 7 am was 8 degrees Celsius, with the maximum expected to touch 24 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Camps and shelters were set up across the city to provide warmth for the homeless battling the winter chill.
Deteriorating Air Quality Since Last SundayDelhi’s AQI has steadily worsened over the past week due to declining wind speeds, marking the worst air quality since December 2021. On Saturday, the 24-hour average AQI stood at 370 (‘very poor’), while Thursday and Friday recorded levels above 400, marking ‘severe’ air pollution. Sunday’s AQI readings at key locations were particularly concerning: Anand Vihar: 427 Jahangirpuri: 441 Wazirpur: 434 Nehru Nagar: 430 Dwarka Sector 8: 429 Health and Travel AdvisoryWith the AQI hovering in the severe range (401-450), restrictions under Stage 3 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) are in place.
Health experts urge residents, particularly senior citizens, children, and those with respiratory conditions, to stay indoors and limit outdoor activities. Rain and Fog Expected AheadLooking ahead, the IMD has predicted light rain or drizzle for Monday, December 23, which could bring temporary relief from pollution. However, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are expected to see dense to moderate fog.
Temperatures on these days are likely to hover around 8 degrees Celsius. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Delhi and around the world..
