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Delhi Chokes: Toxic Smog Blankets Capital
18 Jan
Summary
- Severe air pollution enveloped Delhi with toxic smog and dense fog.
- Temperatures dropped sharply, triggering a cold wave alert.
- Delhi's 24-hour average AQI reached 437, with hazardous levels reported.
New Delhi experienced severe air quality on Sunday morning, with a dense layer of toxic smog and fog covering the city. Pollution levels escalated into the 'severe' category, significantly impacting visibility and daily life. The national capital's 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 437, with numerous monitoring stations recording levels above 450, classified as 'severe+'.
This environmental crisis is compounded by intensifying winter conditions. Temperatures dropped sharply, with the India Meteorological Department issuing a cold wave alert for several parts of Delhi. Minimum temperatures recorded were as low as 4.4 degrees Celsius in some areas, indicating harsh winter weather.
The combined effects of severe pollution, dense fog, and the cold wave have raised significant health concerns, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory ailments. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as these adverse conditions persist.
