New Delhi [India]: A cold wave gripped Delhi on Monday, with dense fog blanketing the national capital, reducing visibility and causing disruptions to train schedules and flight operations.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 9.6 degrees Celsius at Palam and 9.4 degrees Celsius at Safdarjung. As the winter chill intensifies across Northern India, many homeless individuals have sought shelter in night shelters provided by the government.
Travel Disruptions
Thick fog significantly affected travel plans. At Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, several flights were delayed due to reduced visibility. Train schedules were also disrupted, with many delays and cancellations reported.
Among the delayed trains:
- Purushottam Express: Delayed by 311 minutes
- Poorva Express: Delayed by 198 minutes
- Shramjeevi Express: Delayed by 197 minutes
- JBP NZM SF Express: Delayed by 187 minutes
- Rajendra Nagar Patna Tejas Express: Delayed by 124 minutes
- YPR Dee Duronto Express: Delayed by 154 minutes
- Suhaildev Express: Delayed by 105 minutes
Air Quality Worsens
The air quality in Delhi continues to remain concerning, with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recording an air quality index (AQI) of 282 at 7 am, categorised as ‘poor.’
Several areas reported even higher AQI levels:
- Jahangirpuri: 346
- Nehru Nagar: 345
- Patparganj: 344
- North Campus, Delhi University: 314
- Narela: 313
- Mandir Marg: 308
Moderate AQI levels were observed at Lodhi Road, with readings of 233 (IMD) and 181 (IITM). NSIT Dwarka recorded a comparatively lower AQI of 125.
Understanding AQI Ratings
- Good (0-50): Minimal impact on health
- Satisfactory (51-100): Minor discomfort to sensitive groups
- Moderate (101-200): Breathing discomfort to sensitive individuals
- Poor (201-300): Breathing discomfort for most people
- Very Poor (301-400): Increased respiratory risks
- Severe (401-500): Affects healthy individuals and seriously impacts those with existing health conditions
As Delhi battles cold temperatures, fog, and worsening air quality, citizens continue to face challenges in daily life. Efforts to address these issues remain a priority for local authorities.