Temperature Dips to 6.4°C, Homeless Seek Night Shelters as Delhi Battles Cold and Declining Air Quality
New Delhi, January 9: Delhi experienced a sharp drop in temperature on Thursday as cold wave conditions gripped the city, leaving residents bracing for chilly weather and dense fog. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city recorded a minimum temperature of 6.4°C at 5:30 AM, with the day’s low predicted at 5°C and the maximum expected to hover around 21°C.
Compared to recent days, when early morning temperatures ranged between 8°C to 11°C, Thursday marked a significant plunge. The IMD also issued an alert for dense fog, although visuals from some parts of the city suggested otherwise.
Cold Wave and Night Shelter Measures
As the cold wave persisted, many of Delhi’s homeless population sought refuge in night shelters provided by the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB). At a shelter on Lodhi Road, all available beds were occupied.
To accommodate the rising need, DUSIB has established 235 pagoda tents across the city, along with night shelters at various locations, including AIIMS, Lodhi Road, and the Nizamuddin flyover.
Air Quality Index Update
Meanwhile, Delhi’s air quality dipped into the ‘poor’ category, with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 299 at 7:00 AM, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
The AQI scale defines:
- 0-50 as ‘Good’
- 51-100 as ‘Satisfactory’
- 101-200 as ‘Moderate’
- 201-300 as ‘Poor’
- 301-400 as ‘Very Poor’
- 401-500 as ‘Severe’
Earlier this week, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revoked Stage-III measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) following an improvement in air quality. However, Stage-I and Stage-II measures remain in effect as a precautionary measure.
Looking Ahead
Delhi’s residents continue to endure a challenging winter season marked by cold waves, fog, and air pollution, with authorities taking steps to mitigate the impact on vulnerable populations. Weather experts predict the cold spell may persist, urging citizens to remain prepared for further dips in temperature.
