Delhi is facing a cold wave on Monday morning, with temperatures dipping and chilly winds sweeping through the national capital. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi recorded a temperature of 11.4 degrees Celsius at 5:30 am, signaling a significant drop in temperature. Dense fog in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Punjab also delayed several trains at New Delhi Railway Station, further disrupting the city’s morning commute.
As the cold wave persists, the IMD has forecasted a “generally cloudy sky with light rain” in the city for the day. The weather department has predicted the minimum temperature to remain around 11 degrees Celsius, with a maximum of 18 degrees Celsius.
In response to the chilly conditions, homeless individuals across Delhi sought refuge in night shelters, with many shelters such as those in Yamuna Bazar, near Kashmere Gate, and near AIIMS running at full capacity. In areas like Kashmere Gate, where homeless shelters have been set up, all beds were occupied due to the extreme cold.
Residents of Delhi took to bonfires, huddling for warmth amid the biting winds. Despite efforts to stay warm, the city’s air quality remains a concern, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded a ‘very poor’ category with a reading of 316 at 6 am, according to the Central Pollution Control Board.
The IMD had previously reported a decline in the air quality index, leading to the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) revoking Stage-III actions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP). However, Stage-I and Stage-II restrictions will still be in place for the time being.
In a separate weather update, Kashmir has been experiencing fresh snowfall since Sunday. Several areas in Kashmir, including Srinagar, Bandipora, Baramulla, and Kupwara, saw fresh snow accumulation, further lowering temperatures, which remain below freezing in the region. The ongoing snowfall has affected daily life in several districts, including Budgam and Ganderbal in central Kashmir.
As Kashmir continues to experience wintry conditions, authorities are taking necessary precautions to address the challenges posed by heavy snow, while residents in Delhi brace for a mix of light rain and continued cold temperatures.
Sources By Agencies