Delhi Air Pollution: National Capital Region (NCR) is experiencing first dense fog of the season along with onset of winter. Visibility is significantly reduced during morning and night time across entire NCR, including Delhi, Noida, and Ghaziabad, affecting daily life and traffic. According to the local meteorological department’s forecast, both maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to drop in the coming days, leading to a further increase in cold. According to local weather reports, maximum temperature recorded on December 13th was approximately 23 degrees Celsius, and minimum was 11 degrees Celsius.
Delhi AQI Alert: What will Delhi’s situation be like in the coming days?
The weather forecast predicts moderate fog. Similarly, maximum temperature on December 14 is expected to be 24 degrees Celsius and minimum 11 degrees Celsius. A further drop in temperature is indicated for December 15, when maximum temperature could reach 23 degrees Celsius and minimum 9 degrees Celsius. Currently, no weather warnings have been issued, but caution is advised due to the fog.
Delhi GRAP III: AQI in the Very Poor Category
Meanwhile, air pollution has worsened the situation in Delhi-NCR. On Saturday, Delhi’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 387, which falls into the “very poor” category. This level is considered extremely dangerous for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory illnesses. Pollution has been steadily increasing over the past week. The AQI was recorded at 282 on Tuesday, 259 on Wednesday, 307 on Thursday, and 349 on Friday, rising to near critical levels on Saturday. According to official data, the AQI has crossed 400 in 18 areas of Delhi, which falls into the “severe” category.
AQI of these cities
Wazirpur being the most affected area, recording an AQI of 443. This was followed by Jahangirpuri (439), Vivek Vihar (437), Rohini and Anand Vihar (434), Ashok Vihar (431), Sonia Vihar and DTU (427), Narela (425), Bawana (424), Nehru Nagar (421), Patparganj (419), ITO (417), Punjabi Bagh (416), Mundka (415), Burari Crossing (413), Chandni Chowk (412), and DU North Campus (401).
Delhi Air Pollution: Health Experts Advise People
Health experts have advised people to avoid going out unnecessarily, wear masks, and follow the guidelines issued under GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan). The pollution situation may worsen in the coming days if the wind speed remains low as the cold weather intensifies.
What are the restrictions and relaxations under GRAP-3?
Step 1: When does it apply?
- GRAP-3 is implemented when the AQI reaches 401–450 (Severe).
Step 2: Which vehicles are restricted?
- BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles
- CNG, EV, and BS-VI vehicles are exempt.
Step 3: Which activities will be stopped?
- Construction and demolition work will be stopped.
- Dust-generating activities such as brick kilns and stone crushers will be stopped.
Step 4: What will continue?
- Ambulances, police, fire services, and essential services
- Essential work related to metro, buses, railways, and airports
- Diesel generators in case of emergencies
Step 5: What should the general public do?
- Avoid driving older vehicles.
- Use public transport or carpool.
- Keep children and the elderly indoors as much as possible.
- Schools may switch to hybrid/online classes.
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