Delhi continued to struggle with hazardous air quality and dense fog on Saturday, as a majority of the city’s air monitoring stations recorded pollution levels in the severe category. The capital also witnessed its first cold wave day of the winter season, compounding health and mobility concerns for residents.
More than half of Delhi’s air quality monitoring stations showed alarming readings, underlining that the pollution crisis was spread across the city and not limited to a few pockets. Out of thirty-nine monitoring stations, twenty-two recorded an air quality index above four hundred, placing them firmly in the severe category. Areas such as Chandni Chowk, Rohini, Wazirpur, Anand Vihar and Punjabi Bagh emerged as the worst affected, with readings crossing four hundred and fifty in some locations. The city’s average air quality index over the past twenty-four hours stood close to four hundred, reflecting persistently toxic air conditions.
Alongside pollution, Delhi experienced its first cold wave of the season. Weather stations at Safdarjung and Palam recorded temperatures that met cold wave criteria, while the city’s minimum temperature dropped to around six degrees Celsius. The combination of low temperatures, cloud cover and stagnant air further worsened pollution levels, creating difficult conditions for daily life.
The India Meteorological Department reported that dense fog prevailed during the early hours and continued in several areas until the afternoon. A yellow alert for fog has been issued for Sunday and Monday, warning residents of reduced visibility and ongoing weather disruptions.
Low visibility caused by dense fog had a major impact on air travel at Indira Gandhi International Airport. As many as one hundred and twenty-nine flights were cancelled on Saturday, while several others faced delays. Airport authorities said low visibility procedures were activated for landings and advised passengers to remain in contact with airlines for real-time updates on flight schedules.
Delhi International Airport Limited stated that fog-related disruptions are expected to continue if weather conditions do not improve, urging travelers to plan their journeys carefully.
The combination of severe air pollution and cold weather has heightened health risks, particularly for children, the elderly and people with respiratory illnesses. Doctors have warned that prolonged exposure to toxic air can lead to breathing difficulties, eye irritation and cardiovascular stress.
With pollution levels remaining dangerously high and weather conditions unfavourable, authorities continue to urge residents to limit outdoor activity, use protective masks and follow advisories until air quality improves.