Dense Fog and Poor Air Quality Impact Delhi, IGI Airport Issues Advisory

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): A thick layer of fog has descended over Delhi and surrounding NCR cities, severely impacting both road and air traffic. The dense fog has led to disruptions at Indira Gandhi International Airport, where several flights may be affected. The airport authorities have issued an advisory, urging passengers to check with airlines for flight status, especially those not equipped to handle low visibility under CAT III standards.

The advisory specifies that flights not compliant with the CAT III Instrument Landing System could face delays or cancellations. This system is crucial for enabling aircraft to land in conditions of reduced visibility. Meanwhile, Delhi's air quality continues to be a concern, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) surpassing 350 in many areas. Despite improvements in air quality following rainfall earlier this week, the AQI remains in the 'very poor' category, with an average reading of 369 on Tuesday. In response, several restrictions were lifted under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi and NCR.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), as of Wednesday morning, areas such as Anand Vihar (AQI 363), Alipur (AQI 329), Ashok Vihar (AQI 372), Dwarka Sector-8 (AQI 374), and Jahangirpuri (AQI 375) recorded AQI levels in the 'very poor' range. On the weather front, the minimum temperature in Delhi on Wednesday was recorded at 9°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast more dense fog in the coming days. Tuesday’s rainfall led to a drop in temperature, making conditions even colder. However, the IMD predicts a slight relief with a rise in maximum temperatures by three degrees on Wednesday and Thursday. The maximum temperature on Wednesday is expected to be 23°C, with a minimum of 7°C.

As temperatures are expected to rise by 1°C on Thursday, people may experience some respite from the chill. In contrast, the weather in Ghaziabad on Tuesday saw a maximum of 20°C and a minimum of 7°C, with cloudy skies adding to the cold. After a brief period of relief, the IMD also predicts rain on Friday. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions due to the ongoing cold weather and air pollution.