Delhi-NCR is finally catching a break from its notorious winter woes. Biting cold winds sweeping through the region have brought a welcome drop in pollution levels and dense fog, offering residents some much-needed respite.
For weeks, the national capital and its surrounding areas have been choked by hazardous air quality and poor visibility due to smog. However, meteorological data shows a dramatic improvement over the past 24 hours. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has plunged from ‘severe’ to ‘moderate’ in several key areas, with northwesterly winds at speeds up to 20 kmph dispersing pollutants effectively.
Experts attribute this change to a shift in wind patterns. ‘Cold winds from the northwest are acting as a natural cleanser, pushing out stagnant air masses,’ said a senior IMD official. Visibility, which had dropped to under 100 meters in many places, has now improved to over 500 meters across the NCR.
While the mercury has dipped further, with minimum temperatures hovering around 6-8°C, the clearer skies have made daily commutes safer. Schools and offices report smoother operations without the usual fog-related delays.
However, authorities caution that this relief might be short-lived. Forecasts predict a return of calmer winds by the weekend, potentially allowing pollution to build up again. Residents are urged to continue wearing masks, avoid outdoor activities during peak pollution hours, and use public transport to sustain these gains.
This episode underscores the region’s vulnerability to winter pollution traps, highlighting the urgent need for long-term solutions like stricter stubble burning regulations and enhanced public transport infrastructure.