Delhi's Air Quality Plummets to Severe Levels as Winter Sets In

Dense fog enveloped large swathes of Delhi on Sunday morning, coinciding with the onset of winter and a marked decline in air quality readings across the capital. Multiple monitoring stations recorded severe pollution levels, with visibility dropping significantly and raising concerns about outdoor activities and public health.

The deterioration comes as meteorological conditions typical of the season—lower temperatures, reduced wind speeds, and atmospheric stagnation—trap pollutants close to ground level. These factors compound existing air quality challenges in the Delhi region, where a combination of vehicular emissions, industrial activity, and construction dust typically contribute to winter smog.

Residents reported difficulty seeing landmarks and navigating through the haze, with visibility reduced to just a few hundred meters in the most affected areas. Schools and outdoor activities have become a concern for parents and guardians as the air quality index entered the severe range.

The Indian Meteorological Department has indicated that current weather patterns may persist through the coming weeks, raising the prospect of prolonged poor air quality in the region. Experts have recommended that vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, limit outdoor exposure and take necessary precautions.