North India Gripped by Severe Cold Wave and Critical Air Pollution; Delhi AQI Remains Severe

North India is experiencing a severe cold wave and critical air pollution. Delhi's AQI is in the 'Severe' category, triggering GRAP 4. Temperatures have plummeted across Moradabad, Agra, Jammu & Kashmir, and Mount Abu, with some areas reaching sub-zero. Dense fog has caused flight delays in Delhi. The India Meteorological Department forecasts continued cold conditions, highlighting a widespread environmental challenge combining extreme winter and severe air quality.

North India is currently grappling with a severe cold wave alongside alarming air pollution levels. In Delhi, the Air Quality Index (AQI) has persistently stayed in the 'Severe' category, with readings around 443-447 near AIIMS Hospital and 439 city-wide, prompting the invocation of GRAP 4 measures. This toxic smog, combined with dense fog, has drastically reduced visibility, leading to significant delays and disruptions in flight operations at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. Passengers are advised to check their flight statuses due to the intermittent impact of foggy conditions. The cold wave is widespread across other northern regions. Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh saw residents lighting bonfires as temperatures were forecasted to drop to 8°C. Agra experienced a thin layer of fog around the Taj Mahal. Jammu and Kashmir recorded sub-zero temperatures, with Srinagar hitting minus 4.7°C, though tourists continued to enjoy the scenic beauty of Dal Lake. Mount Abu in Rajasthan reported extreme cold, reaching -5°C, with locals noting this level of cold is unusual for January. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) anticipates continued cold, with Srinagar expecting a minimum of minus 5°C, underscoring the dual environmental challenge facing the region.