Delhi: A chilly wave swept over the national capital, bringing dense fog and plummeting temperatures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the temperature dropped to 7°C, with several areas in Delhi experiencing thick fog, reducing visibility to just 250 meters in the early hours.
Residents of Delhi were left struggling against the bitter cold, with many seeking refuge in night shelters across areas like Yamuna Bazar and New Delhi Railway Station. The persistent cold weather and limited visibility made daily commuting difficult for many, especially in the morning hours.
Concerns over pollution levels were also raised, as the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) continued to remain in the “severe” category. At 8 AM, the AQI was recorded at 434, with several locations, including RK Puram (453), Rohini (452), and Shadipur (436), registering dangerously high levels of pollution. The CPCB warned that these levels of pollution are hazardous, particularly for those with respiratory issues.
As the cold wave persisted, the IMD issued warnings for cold wave to severe cold wave conditions in various North Indian regions. Himachal Pradesh was expected to experience the coldest conditions, while cold wave conditions were also anticipated in Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Ground frost was predicted throughout Himachal Pradesh, and severe fog was expected to continue affecting visibility in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh.
The IMD also cautioned that fog-induced low visibility could disrupt traffic and travel, especially in the mornings. Authorities urged people to exercise caution while traveling and participating in outdoor activities, as the weather conditions are expected to persist in Delhi and surrounding regions.
