Delhi continues to shiver under an intense cold wave as temperatures plummeted to 5°C early this morning, marking one of the coldest days of the season so far. The chill has been accompanied by dense fog, disrupting visibility and impacting daily life in the capital.

Adding to the woes, Delhi’s air quality remains in the ‘poor’ category, with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 252, as per data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR). The combination of biting cold and polluted air has raised health concerns, especially for the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing respiratory issues.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cold wave is likely to persist over the next few days as icy winds from the northern Himalayas sweep through the region. Nighttime temperatures are expected to hover between 4°C and 6°C, while daytime highs may not exceed 15°C.

“Residents should take precautions against prolonged exposure to cold and stay warm. The dense fog in the mornings is likely to reduce visibility to 100-200 meters, impacting traffic and flight operations,” an IMD official said.

The cold has forced many Delhiites to stay indoors, while those venturing out early morning or late at night are seen bundled in layers of woolens. Schools have reported low attendance as parents keep children at home to avoid health risks. Commuters, especially bikers, are facing a tough time battling the icy winds.

Despite the cold wave, air quality in the city has failed to improve significantly. Experts attribute the persistent poor AQI to low wind speeds and the continued emission of pollutants from vehicular traffic, construction activities, and industrial units.

The Delhi government has initiated measures to address the twin challenges of cold and pollution. Night shelters across the city have been equipped with additional blankets and heating arrangements to provide relief to the homeless. Meanwhile, water sprinklers and anti-smog guns are being deployed at key locations to combat air pollution.

The IMD has advised residents to stay updated on weather alerts and take necessary precautions during this cold spell. The combination of harsh winter and poor air quality serves as a stark reminder of the environmental and health challenges facing Delhi this season.