Dense Fog Blankets Delhi, Disrupts Flights and Deteriorates Air Quality

National Capital Records Zero Visibility, Severe AQI, and Freezing Temperatures; Night Shelters Overflowing

New Delhi, January 10: A thick blanket of dense fog enveloped Delhi on Friday morning, reducing visibility to zero and causing widespread disruption. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded the temperature at 9.6 degrees Celsius at 5:30 AM, with the day’s minimum temperature predicted to dip to 6 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 20 degrees Celsius.

Impact on Air Travel

In view of the poor visibility, the Delhi Airport issued an advisory stating that flight departures have been impacted. However, CAT III-compliant flights are operational.
“Due to dense fog, there has been an impact on flight departures. Passengers are advised to contact their airlines for updated flight information. Any inconvenience caused is deeply regretted,” the advisory read.

Air Quality Hits ‘Severe’ Category

The city’s air quality deteriorated further, falling into the ‘severe’ category with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 409 at 7:00 AM, a significant drop from 299 recorded the previous day at the same time, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.

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

Night Shelters Overflowing

As temperatures dipped, several night shelters across the city were seen at full capacity. The Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) has deployed 235 pagoda tents to accommodate the homeless. Night shelters have been set up in key locations, including AIIMS, Lodhi Road, and Nizamuddin flyover, offering a refuge from the biting cold.

With freezing temperatures, poor air quality, and disrupted travel, Delhi residents are bracing for challenging winter conditions, with authorities urging caution and preparedness.