Chandigarh : Fog Disrupts Traffic as Delhi Air Quality Shows Marginal Relief

Chandigarh : woke up to thick fog on Wednesday, with visibility dropping sharply across several parts of the city and creating difficult conditions for early morning commuters. The reduced visibility slowed traffic movement on major roads and prompted drivers to exercise extra caution during peak morning hours.

Weather Conditions in Chandigarh

The India Meteorological Department reported that Chandigarh is expected to experience a cool winter day, with temperatures ranging between 8 and 19 degrees Celsius. While skies are forecast to remain largely clear, dense to very dense fog is likely to persist, particularly during the early hours. Weather officials noted that such foggy conditions are typical during this period and can continue to affect road safety and daily routines.

Morning Traffic Impact

Local traffic authorities indicated that fog significantly affected vehicular movement in several sectors, especially on highways and arterial roads connecting the city to neighboring areas. Public transport services continued to operate, though some delays were reported due to low visibility. Commuters were advised to allow extra travel time and follow safety guidelines while driving.

Slight Improvement in Delhi’s Air Quality

In the national capital, air quality showed a modest improvement on Wednesday morning. Data released by the Central Pollution Control Board indicated that the overall Air Quality Index stood at 273 around 7 am, placing it in the poor category. This marked a slight improvement from the previous day, when the AQI was recorded at 294.

Smog Persists Across Several Areas

Despite the marginal improvement, smog continued to blanket large parts of Delhi. According to CPCB data, air quality levels varied across monitoring stations. The AQI near Anand Vihar was reported at 280, falling under the poor category, while Patpadganj recorded a reading of 304, classified as very poor. Other locations showed similarly concerning figures, with Anand Vihar station reporting an AQI of 362 and Ashok Vihar registering 323.

Area-Wise Pollution Readings

Several other parts of the city continued to experience very poor air quality levels. Bawana recorded an AQI of 332, Chandni Chowk stood at 340, and Dwarka Sector 8 reported 317. In Mundka, the AQI was measured at 323. Officials noted that such variations are common due to local factors, including traffic density and industrial activity.

Weather Forecast and Possible Relief

The India Meteorological Department has forecast rain or thundershowers accompanied by strong, gusty winds throughout the day in Delhi. Thunderstorms with lightning and wind speeds of 30 to 40 kilometers per hour are expected at various times, from morning through night. These conditions may help disperse pollutants temporarily. The city’s temperature is likely to hover between 9 and 19 degrees Celsius.

GRAP Measures and Public Advisory

In response to the improving air quality trend and favorable weather forecast, the Commission for Air Quality Management has revoked Stage III of the Graded Response Action Plan across the Delhi-NCR region. However, authorities emphasized that winter conditions can quickly reverse gains. Citizens have been urged to strictly follow the guidelines outlined under Stages I and II of GRAP to prevent further deterioration in air quality.