The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital continued to linger in the ‘poor’ category on Saturday morning, according to data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Current AQI Levels
At 7 am, Delhi’s overall AQI stood at 212, a slight improvement from 277 recorded on Friday. Area-specific AQI levels in Delhi include:
- Alipur: 205
- Anand Vihar: 249
- Bawana: 278
- Chandni Chowk: 168
- Dwarka Sector 8: 212
- Nehru Nagar: 247
- IGI Airport (T3): 247
- Rohini: 253
- Pusa: 242
- Mundka: 264
AQI Categories
- 0-50: Good
- 51-100: Satisfactory
- 101-200: Moderate
- 201-300: Poor
- 301-400: Very Poor
- 401-500: Severe
Temperature Conditions
At 5:30 am, Delhi’s temperature was recorded at 9.4°C, marking a slight relief after experiencing cold wave conditions earlier in the week.
Key Weather Highlights:
- On Wednesday, Delhi recorded its coldest December morning with minimum temperatures plunging to 4.9°C.
- The rise in temperature was attributed to a western disturbance, according to IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy, who noted an increase of 4-5 degrees Celsius on Friday.
- The IMD forecasts that minimum temperatures will stabilize between 8-9°C for the next 5-7 days, while maximum temperatures are expected to hover between 22-24°C.
Fog and Rain Predictions
- Fog conditions are likely to persist across northwest India and eastern Uttar Pradesh on December 16 and 17.
- Southern regions, including Kerala and Tamil Nadu, are expected to receive very heavy rainfall (12-20 cm).
- Northeast India is also experiencing foggy conditions.
Shelter Arrangements for Homeless
In response to the cold weather, the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) has established 235 pagoda tents across the city to provide refuge for the homeless.
Conclusion
While Delhi’s AQI remains in the ‘poor’ category, the slight temperature rise has provided temporary relief from cold wave conditions. However, persistent fog and pollution remain a concern, and efforts to combat the deteriorating air quality continue.