NEW DELHI: The national capital experienced harsh weather and cold wave conditions early Monday morning, with dropping temperatures and biting winds. According to the India Meteorological Department's data, Delhi registered 11.4 degrees Celsius at 5.30am on Monday.
The MeT Department forecasts a minimum temperature of 11 degrees Celsius for the day, whilst the maximum temperature is anticipated to reach around 18 degrees Celsius.
Rain lashed several parts of the national capital and Gurgaon, adding to the intense chill amid the cold wave conditions in the region.
As the cold wave gripped Delhi, fog disrupted railway operations, causing several trains to run late at the New Delhi railway station.
The capital's air quality remained in the 'very poor' category, with the AQI recording 316 at 6am, according to Central Pollution Control Board data.
An AQI between zero and 50 is considered 'good,' 51 and 100 'satisfactory,' 101 and 200 'moderate,' 201 and 300 'poor,' 301 and 400 'very poor,' and 401 and 500 'severe.'
On Sunday, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) withdrew Stage-III GRAP measures in Delhi-NCR following substantial air quality improvements.
Officials confirmed that Stage-I and Stage-II measures remain active on Sunday. The decision followed the GRAP sub-committee's review of air quality data and IMD/IITM forecasts, noting improved AQI levels.
Favourable weather conditions and enhanced wind speeds on Sunday led to Delhi's AQI improvement, recording 339 at 4.00pm and 335 at 5.00pm. IMD/IITM forecasts suggest continued improvement with 'poor' category expectations.
CAQM implemented Stage-III GRAP restrictions across Delhi-NCR on Friday due to increased pollution. The previous Stage-III lifting occurred on December 27.
GRAP comprises emergency measures for Delhi-NCR's air pollution management based on AQI severity. Stage III prohibits non-essential construction and requires hybrid classes for students up to grade V, with online options available where possible.
The severe weather conditions prompted numerous homeless individuals to seek protection in night shelters.
During the temperature decline, night shelters near Yamuna Bazar, Kashmere Gate and AIIMS reported full occupancy.
DUSIB has established 235 pagoda tents for homeless individuals. Night shelters operate across Delhi, including AIIMS, Lodhi Road, and Nizamuddin flyover.
Delhi residents sought warmth around bonfires or in night shelters as temperatures decreased.
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