Delhi and several parts of the National Capital Region (NCR) woke up to zero-visibility fog on Monday as air quality deteriorated sharply, pushing the Air Quality Index (AQI) beyond 400, categorised as severe. The worsening conditions have prompted authorities to issue an orange alert amid an ongoing cold wave.
Areas across Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad were also affected, with dense fog severely reducing visibility during early morning hours. According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), multiple monitoring stations recorded AQI levels well above the danger mark.
Severe AQI Recorded Across Key Locations
Several areas in Delhi reported alarmingly high pollution levels on Monday morning, including:
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Anand Vihar: 458
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Jahangirpuri: 439
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Ashok Vihar: 430
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Chandni Chowk: 426
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Mundka: 416
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Okhla Phase-2: 411
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Narela: 404
Experts have expressed serious health concerns, particularly for children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and people living with respiratory or heart conditions. Prolonged exposure to such air quality can significantly impact overall well-being.
Cold Wave and Fog to Persist
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a maximum temperature of around 22°C and a minimum of 7°C for Delhi. Dense to very dense fog is expected to continue during night and early morning hours across Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh until the end of December, with gradual improvement anticipated in early January.
Pollution Control Measures Under Review
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) is closely monitoring the situation. Officials indicated that a meeting of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) sub-committee may be convened if pollution levels continue to rise.
Currently, Stage-3 GRAP measures are in force across the NCR. These include:
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A ban on private construction activities
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Restrictions on BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles
More stringent Stage-4 restrictions, which were lifted on December 24, may be reintroduced if AQI levels cross 450.
Government’s Response
The Delhi government has reiterated that reducing the number of vehicles on the road is key to controlling air pollution. According to the Chief Minister’s Office, initiatives such as promoting shared transport, expanding electric mobility, and increasing automated vehicle fitness testing stations are being actively implemented.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that the transport policy aims to reduce emissions while ensuring that people can continue their daily travel safely, affordably, and without inconvenience.
As pollution and cold conditions persist, residents are advised to limit outdoor exposure, follow health advisories, and stay updated with official alerts.
