Delhi wakes up to dense fog on Christmas, air quality stays in ‘very poor’ category

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New Delhi: Dense fog blanketed Delhi on Wednesday morning, significantly reducing visibility and disrupting transportation. The Air Quality Index (AQI) at 7 am was recorded at 333, categorised as ‘very poor,’ showing a slight improvement from the previous day’s ‘severe’ levels.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of nine degrees Celsius. Due to the foggy conditions, 20 trains bound for Delhi experienced delays.

Delhi Airport issued an advisory warning that flights not compliant with CAT III standards might face disruptions. Passengers were urged to contact their airlines for the latest updates.

The AQI saw some improvement by the afternoon of December 24, dropping to 369. However, as of 5 am on December 25, key areas in Delhi continued to record ‘very poor’ AQI levels: Anand Vihar at 366, Alipur at 324 and Ashok Vihar at 373, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Stage IV restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), imposed on December 16 when AQI levels exceeded 400, were lifted on December 24 following the air quality’s gradual recovery. However, measures under Stages I, II and III remain in effect to prevent further deterioration.

The CPCB warns that ‘very poor’ AQI levels pose health risks, especially to vulnerable groups. Residents have been advised to follow guidelines to mitigate pollution.

As winter intensifies, authorities continue monitoring air quality and urge public cooperation to sustain improvements. Mixed weather conditions are forecast for the upcoming week.

(with agency inputs)