New Delhi, Jan 13
After weeks of enduring air quality in the "very poor" category, Delhi witnessed an improvement, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 282, placing it in the "poor" category on Monday at 8 a.m., as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Despite the improvement, a cold wave continues to grip the capital, accompanied by dense fog that has significantly reduced visibility during the morning and night hours.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for dense fog on Monday, cautioning residents about potential disruptions.
The day began with chilly winds, and the IMD forecast predicts a mainly clear sky, with smog or shallow fog likely to develop during the evening and night. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 19 degrees Celsius, while the minimum could drop to 7 degrees Celsius.
The recent rains, triggered by a western disturbance affecting northwest India, played a pivotal role in improving the air quality. In light of this, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced on January 12 the lifting of Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap) for Delhi-NCR.