Delhi Weather and Pollution Update: AQI Remains Severe as Dense Fog Persists

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Delhi began the day with yet another cold and foggy winter morning on December 29, with the thick fog and pollution levels continuing to have the city in its grip. Though the temperatures are within the usual winter range, the low visibility and rising pollution levels have only added to the woes of the commuters.

With the Air Quality Index remaining at severe levels and the weather conditions showing no respite, citizens have again been advised to take necessary precautions as the city approaches the advent of the New Year, all of which seems to be engulfed in the smog.

There is also an orange weather alert for dense fog, so you may wish to allow extra time for travel if you're out and about.

Severe Air Pollution Continues

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The air quality in the city is still a cause for concern. Delhi and the NCR area are under severe levels of air pollution, with the Air Quality Index touching figures above the 400 mark, solidly in the severe zone. It implies that the air quality is harmful to one's health, particularly for the older population, children, and asthmatics.

Some parts of the city, like Vivek Vihar and Anand Vihar, are reporting extremely high AQI readings, which is quite alarming and shows that the air quality is very poor. The dense smog that has engulfed the entire city is a combination of both fog and pollutants.

Impact on Travel and Daily Life

The mixture of fog and smog has adversely affected transportation in the capital:

• The flight operations at the IGI Airport remain affected because of low visibility, as declared by the airlines.
• Train and road transport are also experiencing delays because of low visibility.

Health Advice

Since the AQI has fallen in the severe category, the following are advised:

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• Avoid prolonged outdoor exposure and especially strenuous exercises.
• Wear a mask if you have to travel outside.
• Keeping windows closed at home and using indoor air purifiers if available.
• Even brief exposure to such polluted air can irritate lungs and eyes, and make breathing uncomfortable for many people.