Delhi Faces Harsh Cold Wave As Toxic Air Quality Worsens Again

Delhi and its nearby cities are facing another difficult week as the cold wave tightens its grip and pollution levels rise once again. People who were hoping for cleaner air after a slight improvement on Wednesday found no relief on Thursday morning. Instead, the city woke up to dense fog, freezing winds, and extremely polluted air, making daily life hard for everyone.

According to early morning figures, most areas in Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) between 350 and 400, which falls in the "very poor" category. Some localities, such as Wazirpur and Bawana, slipped back into the "severe" category. These levels indicate that the air is dangerous to breathe and can affect even healthy individuals. The combination of pollution and cold air has caused discomfort, irritated eyes, and breathing problems for thousands of residents.

For nearly a month, Delhi has been fighting continuously high pollution levels. Though there was slight improvement over the last two to three days, the overall situation remains worrying. This brief improvement led the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to withdraw GRAP Stage 3 restrictions on Wednesday evening. But even after lifting the rules, the air quality continued to stay in the "very poor" category, showing how serious the problem still is.

New data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on Thursday morning revealed a fresh rise in pollution. Wazirpur recorded an AQI of 404, while Bawana stood at 403. Other areas also showed high numbers—Vivek Vihar (395), Jahangirpuri (392), Anand Vihar (386), Narela (386), Burari (368), Chandni Chowk (368), Sonia Vihar (355), and RK Puram (354). These readings show that most of Delhi is breathing very polluted air, and conditions could worsen if the weather stays the same.

A thick layer of fog covered Delhi early in the morning, returning again during the evening hours. The fog mixed with pollution particles formed a heavy blanket of smog, reducing visibility on the roads and creating unsafe driving conditions. Morning walkers and commuters found it hard to breathe due to the dense haze. This combination of fog and pollution has made outdoor activities extremely difficult.

During winter, cold air prevents pollution from rising and dispersing. This traps particles close to the ground, creating the grey smog that Delhi often faces each year. Because of this, people experience cough, throat irritation, and difficulty breathing. Doctors say that long-term exposure to such poor air can increase the risk of lung infections, chest congestion, and other serious health issues.

Doctors and environmental specialists warn that breathing polluted air for long periods can be harmful. They recommend several precautions to stay safe:

• Avoid going outdoors unless necessary

• Wear good-quality masks when stepping out

• Keep windows closed to stop polluted air from entering

• Use air purifiers at home if available

• Stay hydrated and drink warm fluids

• Avoid heavy physical activity outdoors

Experts say these steps are essential to protect people, especially children, senior citizens, and individuals with asthma or heart problems.

Residents across Delhi-NCR are worried as the pollution shows no signs of clearing. Parents are concerned about their children traveling to school in such conditions. Senior citizens say the cold and pollution together make it hard to step out even for essential work. Daily commuters complain of headaches, irritation, and chest discomfort due to long exposure to smog.

Although GRAP Stage 3 restrictions were lifted recently, the rising pollution levels may force officials to reconsider bringing them back. Weather experts say that pollution will only reduce when strong winds or rain help clear the air. Until then, people must follow safety guidelines strictly to protect their health.