GRAP Phase IV measures are effective across NCR from December 16 following deterioration in air quality.
The capital’s air quality index remained in the ‘severe’ category on Thursday as thick fog blanketed the city and reduced visibility. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the air quality index (AQI) measured in the city at 8 am was 448. (CPCB).
AQI was recorded as ‘severe’ in several areas of the national capital. Anand Vihar recorded an AQI of 478, Ashok Vihar 474, Bawana 460 and DTU 461.
An AQI between 0-50 is considered good, 51-100 satisfactory, 101-200 moderate, 201-300 poor, 301-400 very poor and 401-500 severe.
Meanwhile, the minimum temperature in the city was recorded at 7 degrees Celsius, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Additionally, according to the IMD, smog and dense fog conditions are likely to intensify due to prevailing surface winds from the northerly direction.
A pedestrian said that the temperature in the city is expected to drop in the coming days.
“Winter has come late this year, so we expect it to last until late next year. The temperature has dropped and it can be expected to drop further in the coming days,” said the pedestrian.
Delhi’s winters pose a tough time for the city’s poor neighborhoods to find housing and shelter.
“People taking shelter outside AIIMS are the ones fighting the cold weather. It is really tough for them. The temperature will drop further and it will be more difficult for them. People should be careful and take care of their body temperature. This weather situation,” said another pedestrian.
Air Force personnel were rehearsing for the 78th Republic Day at Kartavipath in cold weather. According to the IMD, the minimum temperature in the city was 5 degrees Celsius on Tuesday.
GRAP Phase IV measures are effective across NCR from December 16 following deterioration in air quality.
(Apart from the headline, this story has not been edited by DNA staff and is published by ANI)
The decision came after Delhi’s AQI crossed 400 marks. On Monday night, the AQI was reported as 399 at 9 pm and crossed into the severe zone at 401 at 10 pm.