Dense Fog and Poor Air Quality Continue to Disrupt Delhi; Orange Alert Issued

Air quality worsens in Delhi with AQI touching “very poor” levels; train delays and cancellations add to commuter woes.

New Delhi, January 13: Dense fog enveloped the Delhi-NCR region on Sunday, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an orange alert. Air pollution levels across the city remained concerning, with several areas recording “very poor” AQI levels, further aggravating the winter woes.

Air Quality Update

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported Delhi’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) at 285, categorised as “poor.” Specific areas like Jahangirpuri (346), Nehru Nagar (345), and Patparganj (344) faced severe pollution levels. North Campus, Narela, and Mandir Marg also registered AQI levels above 300.

In contrast, locations like NSIT Dwarka (125) and Lodhi Road reported relatively better air quality with AQI levels of 233 (IMD) and 181 (IITM).

• AQI Categories:
  • 0-50: Good
  • 51-100: Satisfactory
  • 101-200: Moderate
  • 201-300: Poor
  • 301-400: Very Poor
  • 401-500: Severe

Travel Disruptions

The dense fog caused significant disruptions to train schedules, with numerous delays and cancellations reported:

• Longest Delays:
  • Purushottam Express: 311 minutes
  • Poorva Express: 198 minutes
  • Shramjeevi Express: 197 minutes
• Other Delays:
  • Tejas Express: 124 minutes
  • YPR Duronto Express: 154 minutes
  • Gondwana Express: 92 minutes

Taj Mahal Shrouded in Fog

In Uttar Pradesh, iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal in Agra were covered in a thin fog layer, adding to the cold wave’s impact across the region.

Revised GRAP Measures

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) following an improvement in Delhi’s air quality due to rainfall on Saturday. However, measures under Stages I and II remain in effect, focusing on vigilance to prevent a relapse in pollution levels.

The decision was based on AQI levels and weather forecasts provided by IMD and IITM. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure public health and safety.

As Delhi grapples with dense fog and pollution, commuters and residents are urged to stay updated and take necessary precautions.