NEW DELHI: Delhi woke up to a thick blanket of fog as a cold wave gripped the city on Wednesday morning. A sharp drop in temperatures, coupled with chilly winds, significantly reduced visibility.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the minimum temperature is expected to fall to 8°C, while the maximum is likely to remain around 16°C. The city will also see “very dense fog” throughout the day.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded at 326 at 6am on Wednesday, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category, as per data from the Central Pollution Control Board. The city’s AQI has consistently been in the ‘very poor’ range in recent days.
An AQI ranging from 0 to 50 is classified as ‘good,’ 51 to 100 as ‘satisfactory,’ 101 to 200 as ‘moderate,’ 201 to 300 as ‘poor,’ 301 to 400 as ‘very poor,’ and 401 to 500 as ‘severe.’
The harsh weather has driven many homeless individuals to seek refuge in night shelters across the city. Areas such as Sarai Kale Khan, Ram Leela Maidan, and Nigam Bodh Ghat reported full occupancy of available shelters.
To address the situation, the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) has set up 235 additional pagoda tents to accommodate the homeless.
Night shelters have also been established in key locations, including AIIMS, Lodhi Road, and the Nizamuddin flyover, to provide relief during the cold spell.
On Sunday, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) lifted Stage-III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) due to improvements in air quality. However, Stage-I and Stage-II measures remain in effect.
The cold wave, accompanied by dense fog and chilly winds, is expected to persist for several days. Authorities have advised residents to stay warm and limit outdoor activities, particularly during early morning and evening hours.
