Delhi battles pollution and cold as air quality remains poor, and people are dealing with both situations at the same time. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for thick fog and cold temperatures in Delhi and nearby areas. At the same time, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is still poor, which is worrying for people’s health and transportation.

Source: X

Stuck in Poor Air Quality

Despite the winds and light showers earlier this season, Delhi’s air quality has not gotten much better, usually staying in the poor range. On Sunday morning, the citywide AQI was around 259, meaning there are still high levels of pollutants in the air, which can harm sensitive groups like children, older adults, and people with breathing problems.

Calm winds and cold air have kept the pollutants close to the ground, making it difficult for them to disperse. Several monitoring stations in the city, like Chandni Chowk, have reported AQI readings that are almost in the very poor category, showing how serious winter pollution has become.

Also Read: Renewable Energy In 2025: Progress, Setbacks, And The Road Ahead

Cold Wave and Fog Compounding Risks

The cold weather is making things worse, and temperatures have dropped below normal in places like Palam and Ayanagar, which have recorded lows around 4.5-4.7 °C. Thick fog in the morning has also made it difficult to see. The IMD’s yellow alert means there could be problems with road, rail, and air travel because of the fog.

The combination of fog and smog is not only disrupting daily life but also making health risks worse because it is more dangerous to breathe in pollutants. The fog can trap pollutants near the ground, which can cause breathing problems and make people with lung or heart conditions more vulnerable.

Also Read: India Saw 3% Drop In Coal Power Generation In 2025 Amid A Clean Energy Surge

Public Health and Advisory Measures

Health experts are advising people to be careful when they go outside, suggesting that sensitive groups limit their time outdoors, wear masks, and use air purifiers if they can. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) may take more action under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) if the situation gets worse.

The weather has caused travel delays on highways and at airports. People are advised to allow extra time for travel and be careful during early morning and late-night hours. Weather forecasters say that the cold temperatures, low wind speeds, and fog are likely to continue for the next few days. This means that pollution levels may remain high until the weather changes. Delhi battles pollution and cold, highlighting the ongoing challenge of managing air quality in cities during extreme winter weather.

Also Read: Nature’s Warning Signs: What Ecosystem Changes In 2025 Reveal