Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) faced a tough start to the day as dense fog, a cold wave, and rising air pollution caused widespread disruption. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the minimum temperature in the city dropped to around 4–5°C, lower than usual for this time of year.
Visibility dropped significantly due to thick fog, especially around Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. Flights were delayed, and passengers were advised to check schedules before heading to the airport. Roads across Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram were affected as vehicles moved slowly through foggy conditions. Traffic police urged drivers to use fog lights and maintain safe distances.
Air pollution reached dangerous levels, with Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 412, placing it in the ‘severe’ category. Areas such as Anand Vihar and ITO experienced particularly high pollution, increasing health risks for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory issues.
To tackle pollution, authorities enforced Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). Non-essential construction and demolition work was stopped, and older petrol and diesel vehicles were restricted, except for essential services.
The IMD forecast indicates that cold and dry conditions may continue for the next few days, with fog likely in early mornings. Residents were advised to stay warm, limit outdoor activity, and allow extra time for travel due to weather-related disruptions.
