Dense fog hits Punjab, Haryana; Delhi's Air Quality remains Poor

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced a weather alert for dense fog in certain areas of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and western Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, there is a chance of rain and lightning in isolated regions of Himachal Pradesh.

As per IMD data, New Delhi's temperature at 8:30 am stood at 14.4 degrees Celsius with humidity at 91 percent. By 8:30 am on February 4, wind conditions were calm with no notable movement recorded. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air quality index (AQI) in the national capital was recorded at 247, signifying a 'poor' air quality level.

Numerous flights experienced delays at Chennai International Airport because of thick fog. On Monday, after the Air Quality Index (AQI) improved in the national capital, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced the immediate lifting of restrictions under Phase-III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region (NCR).

The CAQM's decision followed Delhi's AQI reading of 286 on February 3, which is 64 points below the 350 points needed to initiate Phase-III measures according to the Supreme Court's guidelines.

Director R.K. The order signed by Agarwal, who is also the member convener of the sub-committee on GRAP, stated that "Delhi's AQI on 03.02.2025 was recorded at 286, which is 64 points below the 350 threshold needed to enforce Phase-III according to the Supreme Court's current guidelines. Additionally, the IMD has forecasted light rain or drizzle and favorable wind conditions in the upcoming days. "

The order further stated, "Thanks to the rise in mixing height, better ventilation coefficient, and highly favorable weather conditions for dispersing pollutants, Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) has significantly improved."

Nonetheless, the measures outlined in Phases I and II of the present GRAP schedule will continue to be in effect and will be implemented. All pertinent agencies have been directed to uphold rigorous monitoring and intensify efforts during these two stages of the present GRAP timetable.