AQI in ‘Poor’ Category Across National Capital as Shelter Homes See Influx Amid Severe Cold Conditions
New Delhi, December 15: The national capital continued to grapple with worsening air quality and dipping temperatures on Sunday, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the ‘poor’ category, accompanied by severe cold wave conditions.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s AQI was recorded at 246 at 7 am, a noticeable deterioration from Saturday’s AQI of 212. Alongside this, the temperature plunged to 6°C early Sunday morning, down from 9.4°C recorded a day earlier, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Pollution Hotspots in Delhi
Pollution levels in various parts of Delhi showed alarming figures:
- Anand Vihar: AQI 292
- Bawana: AQI 298
- Burari Crossing: AQI 288
- Nehru Nagar: AQI 299
- Mundka: AQI 317 (highest recorded)
For reference, AQI levels between 201-300 are classified as ‘poor,’ while 301-400 is considered ‘very poor,’ and 401+ falls under the ‘severe’ category.
Shelter Homes Provide Refuge Amid Bitter Cold
As temperatures dipped further, shelter homes across Delhi saw an increased influx of people seeking refuge from the harsh cold. Visuals from areas near Jama Masjid and AIIMS Delhi depicted people wrapped in thick blankets, huddled for warmth.
Ved Pal, who manages a shelter near AIIMS Delhi, highlighted the provisions available. “Over 40 people used the shelter on Saturday night. We provide proper beds, as many blankets as needed, food twice a day, and tea with rusk in the mornings,” he told ANI.
Pal also detailed the medical support available at the shelters. “We keep a first aid box and provide basic medicines like paracetamol. If needed, a doctor visits the shelter, or we help transport individuals to nearby AIIMS,” he added.
IMD Warns of Continuing Cold Wave
The Indian Meteorological Department has issued warnings of a ‘cold wave to severe cold wave’ across parts of North India, including Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy predicted a further 1-2°C drop in temperatures due to strong winds in the region. “The cold wave is expected to last one to two more days in North and Central India,” she stated.
Conclusion
As Delhi grapples with the dual challenges of air pollution and harsh winter conditions, shelter homes and emergency services are playing a vital role in helping the city’s most vulnerable. Meanwhile, residents are urged to take precautions against the deteriorating air quality and frigid temperatures as the cold wave continues to grip the region.