Cold Wave Grips North India as Delhi’s AQI Crosses 400, Toxic Smog Triggers Emergency Curbs

North India shivers under icy winds while Delhi’s air quality plunges into the ‘severe’ category with an AQI of 413. The government enforces GRAP-3 measures, halts construction, and restricts BS-3 and BS-4 vehicles amid worsening pollution.

New Delhi: Winter has arrived across the country. Temperatures have suddenly dropped in many states in early November. Cold winds have left people shivering in Madhya Pradesh. On Tuesday night, temperatures dropped below 10 degrees Celsius in 11 cities across the state. The Meteorological Department has issued a cold wave alert for the next four days.

Bone-chilling cold in Rajasthan

The cold wave is also rapidly increasing in Rajasthan. Temperatures dropped below 10 degrees Celsius in many areas on Tuesday night. The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow cold wave alert for four days in Sikar district and one day in Tonk district.

According to reports, the effects of this early snowfall in the hilly areas are being felt in Rajasthan as well. Cities like Sikar, Fatehpur, and Nagaur recorded temperatures lower than Shimla and Mussoorie.

Delhi-NCR Wraps in Smog: Falling Temperatures, Rising Chill, and Possible Rain Ahead

According to the Jaipur Meteorological Center, similar cold conditions are likely to continue in the state for the next few days. Delhi's air quality in the 'severe' category has worsened the situation, adding to residents' hardships.

Along with the cold, pollution has also worsened the situation in Delhi-NCR. On Wednesday morning, Delhi's average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 413, which falls in the 'severe' category.

The worst situation was in Wazirpur, where the AQI reached 459. The air in areas like Anand Vihar, Chandni Chowk, Bawana, Rohini, and ITO also became extremely toxic.

Government Takes Strict Steps

In view of the increasing pollution, the Delhi government has implemented GRAP-3. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has issued orders that children up to grade 5 will be taught online or in hybrid mode.

Construction work has been halted, and BS-3 petrol and BS-4 diesel vehicles have been banned. Heavy and medium-sized BS-4 diesel cargo vehicles will also not be allowed to enter Delhi.

A Double Challenge

While the cold is rapidly increasing in the northern Indian states, Delhi is reeling under the grip of pollution. People are struggling to cope with both the cold and the polluted air.

Fog, Haze, and Falling Mercury: North India’s weather hints at what’s coming next

The Meteorological Department has warned that the intensity of both cold and pollution may increase in the coming days, potentially affecting health.