Delhi’s Air Quality Remains Poor as Temperatures Stabilize After Cold Wave

“With AQI at 212 and minimum temperatures stabilizing at 9°C, Delhi faces persistent pollution and cold conditions alongside rising fog in northwest India.”

New Delhi, December 14: The national capital continued to battle poor air quality on Saturday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) measured at 212, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). While the AQI showed a slight improvement from Friday’s 277, pollution levels remain a cause for concern in several areas of Delhi.

Key localities like Anand Vihar and Rohini recorded AQI levels of 249 and 253, respectively, while Mundka was at 264. Other areas, including Alipur (205), Chandni Chowk (168), and Dwarka Sector 8 (212), also reported AQI in the ‘poor’ category.

Temperature Stabilizes After Cold Wave

On the weather front, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 9.4°C in Delhi at 5:30 am on Saturday, following a sharp dip earlier in the week. The cold wave conditions experienced on Wednesday, when the mercury dropped to a December low of 4.9°C, have eased.

IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy attributed the earlier temperature drop to a western disturbance but noted that minimum temperatures have now risen by 4-5 degrees Celsius. “Temperatures will stabilize around 8-9°C in the coming days, while maximum temperatures will hover between 22-24°C,” she added.

Support for Homeless Amid Cold

In response to the chilly nights, the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) has set up 235 pagoda tents to provide refuge for the homeless. These shelters aim to protect vulnerable residents from the harsh winter conditions.

Fog and Rainfall Predictions

The IMD has also forecast persistent fog in northwest India, with similar conditions expected in eastern Uttar Pradesh on December 16 and 17. Heavy rainfall is likely in southern Kerala and Tamil Nadu, with precipitation expected to range between 12-20 cm. Northeast India is also experiencing foggy weather.

Delhi’s pollution and weather conditions continue to pose challenges, with the city’s AQI stuck in the ‘poor’ category and winter weather adding to the struggle.