New Delhi: A biting cold spell has gripped New Delhi, dragging the night-time mercury down to a season-low of 9.7 °C, and with it, triggering a sharp deterioration in air quality across the capital. Experts warn that a toxic mix of weather and emissions is deepening the city’s winter smog crisis.
Chillier conditions have created a perfect pollution trap: with calmer winds, clear skies, and strong radiative cooling, pollutants are being held close to ground level. This meteorological setup has halted the dispersion of emissions, causing the concentration of harmful particles to rise dangerously.
Data from monitoring stations shows the fallout. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), 33 out of 39 stations have reported air quality levels in the “severe” category. At one point, the 24-hour average AQI registered as high as 428, marking one of the worst pollution days Delhi has witnessed in nearly a year.
The health implications are serious. “Severe” AQI levels are known to pose significant risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Prolonged exposure to such polluted air can exacerbate health problems, especially when layered over already fragile public health infrastructure.
In response, authorities have activated Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), imposing bans and restrictions to curb further pollution. While this includes halting non-essential construction and limiting certain polluting activities, many fear that these measures may not be enough unless the emissions sources and weather conditions are jointly tackled.
Residents are being urged to take extra precautions: avoid outdoor physical activity during peak pollution hours, use N-95 masks if stepping out, and keep windows closed during the early morning smog surge. For many, especially those reliant on open heating or living in poorly ventilated homes, the challenge is even harder.
This episode once again underscores Delhi’s recurring winter dilemma a toxic synergy of meteorology and emissions. The immediate crisis may be acute, but experts argue that long-term, structural changes are essential. Without reducing emissions and improving urban resilience, these “severe” air days may become the new normal.