Delhi chokes: AQI hits 481, dense fog and cold to worsen in coming days

Delhi continues to battle severe air pollution as the average Air Quality Index (AQI) touched 481 on Monday morning, marking an alarming rise in toxicity levels. Alipur, with an AQI of 471, recorded the lowest pollution level in the city, yet it remains in the ‘Severe+’ category. Other areas are fighting with even worse air quality.

Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate further, according to the seven-day forecast. The city’s minimum temperature is likely to drop by 2-3°C over the next five days, followed by dense to very dense fog during the late-night and early-morning hours. The daily weather updates suggest that smog and moderate fog will persist throughout the week. It will impact the visibility, adding to the existing challenges of pollution.

weather forecast highlights

• Nov 18-20: Smog and dense fog expected in the mornings; moderate fog likely in the evenings and nights. Minimum temperatures to expected to be around 13-14°C.
• Nov 21-23: Fog conditions to intensify with mist and shallow to moderate fog affecting visibility in the mornings and nights. Maximum temperatures are expected to rise gradually from 27°C to 30°C.

Impact on daily life
The worsening air quality and reduced visibility are already disrupting daily routines. Flights at Delhi Airport are facing delays due to foggy conditions, with airlines such as IndiGo issuing advisories urging passengers to allow extra travel time and check flight updates before leaving for the airport. Road traffic is also moving slower than usual due to poor visibility caused by smog and fog.

Because of the rising pollution, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) constituted by the Ministry of Environment have implemented the fourth phase (GRAP-4) of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi from today, Monday. All schools in Delhi will remain closed except for classes 10th and 12th.

Advisory for residents

• Avoid outdoor activities: Minimise exposure to outdoor air during early mornings and evenings.
• Use air purifiers: Ensure indoor air quality with purifiers and keep windows closed.
• Check updates: Monitor weather and travel advisories for safe commuting.