Delhi Shivers Under Dense Fog and Cold Wave; Air Quality Nears ‘Severe’ Levels

Minimum Temperature Drops to 7.6°C; AQI Remains Hazardously High Across Several Areas of the Capital

New Delhi, December 21: The national capital woke up to a dense blanket of fog and biting cold on Saturday morning, with temperatures dipping to a chilly 7.6°C at Safdarjung and 8.7°C at Palam, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 23°C during the day.

Cold Wave and Dense Fog Blanket Delhi

Residents braved the cold, with some, like cycling enthusiasts, sticking to their routines.

“We are not troubled by winters or summers. Our cycling group is active across different parts of Delhi,” shared a local resident.

Meanwhile, dense fog disrupted visibility across various parts of the city, including prominent landmarks like Akshardham.

Air Quality Deteriorates to ‘Severe’ Levels

The air quality in Delhi continues to remain a serious concern, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 398 as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Key readings across the city included:

• Anand Vihar: 414 (Severe)
• Dwarka Sector 8: 413 (Severe)
• Delhi University North Campus: 376 (Very Poor)
• Lodhi Road: 362 (Very Poor)
• Rohini: 425 (Severe)
• Najafgarh: 398 (Very Poor)

An AQI between 401-500 is categorized as ‘Severe,’ indicating hazardous health impacts.

Wider North India Faces Cold Wave

The IMD has also predicted severe cold wave conditions in Himachal Pradesh and parts of Jammu & Kashmir, while isolated pockets in Punjab and Rajasthan are expected to experience similar conditions.

Dense fog is forecasted in Himachal Pradesh and eastern Rajasthan, adding to travel disruptions and health concerns.

Republic Day Parade Rehearsals Continue Amid Fog

Despite the dense fog and cold weather, preparations for the Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path are ongoing. Participants and officials braved the harsh weather to ensure smooth rehearsals.

As North India remains in the grip of cold waves and hazardous air quality, health advisories urge residents to limit outdoor activities, wear protective layers, and use air purifiers indoors.