Delhi-NCR is currently under a severe weather assault. A bitter cold snap, coupled with dense fog, has brought the city’s daily rhythm to a crawl. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert, warning residents of sub‑zero temperatures and visibility dropping below 100 metres in many parts of the capital region. Simultaneously, air‑quality monitors record an AQI of 633, a level classified as “hazardous” and far above the national safe limit. The combined impact is evident on the ground: commuters struggle to navigate streets, schools face closures, and airlines are forced to adjust flight schedules. This article unpacks the unfolding crisis, its causes, and what the coming days may hold for the nation’s most populated metropolis.
Extreme cold grips Delhi‑NCR
The mercury has plunged to ‑2°C in parts of Delhi, a temperature rarely seen this time of year. Residents report frost forming on vehicle windshields and a sharp rise in heating‑related power consumption. Health officials have issued advisories for the elderly, children, and those with respiratory conditions to limit outdoor exposure.
Dense fog slows down the city
Morning fog, described by locals as “a thick white blanket”, has reduced visibility to less than 50 metres in several districts. Traffic police have deployed fog‑lights and warning signs, yet accidents have risen by 12 % compared with the previous week. Public transport operators have reduced bus frequencies, and the Delhi Metro has temporarily halted services on the Yellow Line during peak fog hours.
Air quality hits hazardous levels
The Central Pollution Control Board reports an AQI of 633, placing the region in the “severe” category. Major pollutants include PM2.5, PM10, and nitrogen dioxide, driven by a mix of vehicular emissions, construction dust, and stagnant atmospheric conditions.
| AQI Range | Health Implication |
|---|---|
| 0‑50 | Good – minimal impact |
| 51‑100 | Moderate – may affect sensitive groups |
| 101‑200 | Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups |
| 201‑300 | Very Unhealthy – health warnings for everyone |
| 301‑500 | Hazardous – emergency conditions |
| >500 | Severe Hazard – immediate health risks |
Air travel faces disruptions
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) has reported a 30‑minute delay on arrivals and departures, with some low‑visibility flights diverted to alternate airports. Airlines such as Air India and IndiGo have issued advisories urging passengers to check flight status before heading to the terminal.
Looking ahead: mitigation and public response
Authorities are deploying additional fog‑dispersion units and urging citizens to wear warm clothing, limit outdoor activities, and use masks to reduce inhalation of polluted air. The IMD forecasts a gradual warming trend over the next 48 hours, but experts warn that without decisive pollution‑control measures, the AQI could remain dangerously high.
In summary, Delhi‑NCR is confronting a rare convergence of extreme cold, dense fog, and hazardous air quality that is straining transportation, health services, and daily life. Prompt governmental action and public vigilance are essential to navigate the immediate challenges and to prevent a repeat of such conditions in the future.
Image by: Maria Tyutina
https://www.pexels.com/@mtyutina
