Dense fog blankets Delhi on Christmas, AQI drops to 'very poor' category

NEW DELHI: Delhi experienced severe cold conditions and thick fog on Christmas morning, resulting in a significant temperature decline and reduced visibility throughout the city.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department, the temperature dropped to 10 degrees Celsius, whilst areas including Kartavya Path, Janpath, Dwarka, and India Gate were completely enveloped in dense fog with zero visibility.


The visibility levels were recorded at 100 metres at 5.30am due to the heavy fog conditions.

A resident, Mohammad Javed Ansari, mentioned that residents had begun lighting bonfires to combat the cold.

"The temperature have dropped down a lot due to the rain that took place yesterday. We have to use bonfires to keep ourselves warm.." Ansari said.

Another local complained about the lack of visibility due to the fog. "The temperature has dropped down a lot due to the rain yesterday. It has become very cold and there is barely any visibility.." said the local.

The city's Air Quality Index (AQI) registered 333 at 8 am, categorised as 'very poor' by the Central Pollution Control Board. Other areas also showed concerning AQI readings: Anand Vihar at 360, Ashok Vihar at 372, Bayana at 362, and CRRI Mathura Road at 324.

The AQI scale categorises air quality as follows: 0-50 as good, 51-100 as satisfactory, 101-200 as moderate, 201-300 as poor, 301-400 as very poor, and 401-500 as severe.

Deepak Pandey, another local, said both the winter and pollution had become harsh in the city. "The pollution and the winters both have become very harsh. It is taking a toll on people as they are suffering from breathing difficulties..." said Pandey.

Another local stated that the government needs to find a permanent solution to the city's pollution problem.

"The pollution has reduced a bit due to the rain, however the government needs to find a permanent solution to this," said a local.

Moderate rain swept through the city on December 24, intensifying the winter chill.

(With inputs from agency)
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