Rain and fog blanket Delhi, lowering visibility and pollution levels

New Delhi: The national capital experienced a refreshing change in weather on Friday morning as rain swept across the city, accompanied by dense fog that significantly reduced visibility. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded a minimum temperature of 12 degrees Celsius, with the maximum expected to touch 20 degrees Celsius.

The IMD has predicted a “thunderstorm with rain” for Delhi on Friday and Saturday, indicating that more showers are likely over the weekend.

Residents and tourists welcomed the cooler, cleaner air. Deepak Pandey, a Delhi resident, commented, “The weather feels like Kashmir—pleasant and ideal for travel. Although it’s cold, the rain has helped reduce pollution levels.”

Tourist Raman Kushwaha from Madhya Pradesh added, “Despite the chill and light rain, it’s enjoyable for sightseeing. The pollution levels seem better, making the experience even more delightful.”

Images from Kartavya Path showcased a scenic drizzle amidst dense fog, creating a refreshing atmosphere.

Despite the pleasant weather, Delhi’s air quality remained in the ‘very poor’ category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 371 at 7 a.m., according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Key AQI levels included Anand Vihar at 398, IGI Airport (T3) at 340, and ITO at 380.

Earlier this week, the Central Government’s air quality monitoring panel revoked Stage IV (‘Severe+’) restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), following an improvement in AQI levels due to favorable meteorological conditions. Measures under Stages I, II, and III remain in place to prevent further air quality degradation.

Stage IV restrictions, imposed on December 16, targeted severe pollution levels, restricting industrial operations and construction activities. These measures were lifted as AQI levels dropped below 400, signaling a temporary relief from Delhi’s persistent pollution woes.

(with agency inputs)