New Delhi, January 18 (ANI): An anti-smog gun vehicle sprays water droplets to combat air pollution, Sunday in New Delhi | Photo credit: ANI
According to the data released by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the air quality index (AQI) in the ITO area was recorded at 434, placing it in the “severe” category.
Similar conditions prevailed near Rafi Marg, where the AQI stood at 417, while areas around the Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Pandav Nagar reported an AQI of 455.
Several other locations in the capital also reached alarmingly high levels. Anand Vihar recorded an Aqi of 462, Ashok vihar 473, Bawana 448, Burri 460, Chandni Chowk 454, Dwarka Sector-8 427, Mundka 467, Narela 437, Punjabi Bagh 434, RK Puram 439, Rohini 437 and Wazirpur 472
All these areas remained in the ‘severe’ category, indicating extremely poor air quality and increased health risks.
There was virtually no visibility on the IT stretch during the morning hours, leading to slow-moving traffic and disruptions to normal vehicle movements.
Cold wave conditions, coupled with dense fog, also affected aviation operations, with several flights at Indira Gandhi International Airport delayed due to poor visibility.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 8 degrees Celsius on Monday, while the maximum temperature is expected to reach around 25 degrees Celsius later in the day.
Meanwhile, in response to the deteriorating air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) on Saturday once again invoked phase IV measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) for Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).
“Taking into account the prevailing air quality trend and relevant factors and in an effort to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region, the CAQM Sub-Committee on GRAP unanimously resolves to implement all actions as envisaged under Phase IV of the existing GRAP – ‘Severe+’ Air Quality (DELHI AQI > 450) with immediate effect across the NCR as a proactive measure. This is in addition to the actions under Stages I, II and III of the existing GRAP already in force in NCR,” the CAQM order read.
The order further added, “NCR Pollution Control Boards and other concerned agencies have been asked to escalate preventive measures to prevent further deterioration of air quality in the region.”
As severe pollution, cold waves and dense fog persist, authorities have urged citizens to limit outdoor activities, follow health advisories and take precautions against dangerous air quality.
India’s financial capital Mumbai also woke up to dense fog on Monday morning, with temperatures hovering between 17 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.
Published on January 19, 2026
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