Delhi wakes up to chilly and windy morning; AQI remains in poor category
Most of the monitoring stations reported AQI levels in the 'very poor' range. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 to 100 'satisfactory', 101 to 200 'moderate', 201 to 300 'poor', 301 to 400 'very poor', and 401 to 500 'severe'.
New Delhi: Delhi's air quality continued to remain in the 'poor' category on Monday, with the city recording an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 262 this morning, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data. The national capital has been grappling with alarming pollutant levels for the past few weeks, with toxic air causing breathing discomfort to most people on prolonged exposure.
Most of the monitoring stations reported AQI levels in the 'poor' range. An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good', 51 to 100 'satisfactory', 101 to 200 'moderate', 201 to 300 'poor', 301 to 400 'very poor', and 401 to 500 'severe'.
Cold wave grips Delhi
Besides poor air quality, residents also woke up to a chilly and windy morning. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast, a cold wave is expected to affect isolated places in the city till January 6. A thin layer of fog also engulfed this city, bringing down the visibility level. Low visibility also affected flight and train operations at the Delhi's IGI airport.
Advisory for travellers
Meanwhile, the Airports Authority of India has issued an advisory stating that reduced visibility due to weather conditions is expected in North India and adjoining parts of Central India. It said that the reduction in visibility will affect flight operations and flights at some airports may experience delays, diversions, or extended holding times.
It advised passengers to check the latest flight status with their respective airlines before heading to the airport. "Please allow extra time for your journey. Passengers are requested to strictly follow the instructions issued by the airlines and airport authorities," it said.