Delhi's air quality upgrades to 'very poor'; Northeast monsoon withdraws
What's the story
Cold wave persists in Delhi and the adjoining National Capital Region (NCR), while they simultaneously experience dense fog. The India Meteorological Department(IMD) recorded a temperature of around 8.2 degrees Celsius at 7:00am. In light of these conditions, the Delhi Airport has issued an advisory for passengers about low-visibility procedures in place, but assured that flight operations are normal.
Pollution alert
Delhi's air quality worsens, smog blankets city
The city's air quality has also taken a hit with an overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of 397 at 7:00am, putting it in the "very poor" category, after remaining in "severe" for three consecutive days. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) recorded an AQI of 445 near Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in Pandav Nagar, falling under the "severe" category. Other areas, such as Anand Vihar and Ashok Vihar, recorded AQIs of 444, while Wazirpur recorded an AQI of 446.
Pollution response
CAQM reactivates Stage-IV measures amid severe pollution
In light of the severe pollution levels, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has reactivated Stage-IV measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across Delhi and NCR. These measures are aimed at curbing pollution and improving air quality in the region. The dense fog has also affected visibility in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, where smog covered parts of the city.
Weather update
Northeast monsoon withdraws from Tamil Nadu, Puducherry
In other weather news, the Northeast Monsoon has formally withdrawn from Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal. The region is likely to witness dry weather till Wednesday with early morning fog or mist possible at isolated places. The Weather Department said minimum temperatures will not change significantly, but night temperatures may remain near normal or slightly below normal levels.