A gust of cold relief has hit the National Capital Region. Strong chilly winds have swept away the thick blanket of fog and toxic smog that had gripped Delhi and nearby cities, marking a significant turnaround in the ongoing winter battle.
Monitoring stations across the NCR recorded a sharp decline in PM2.5 levels yesterday, with many zones shifting from ‘very poor’ to ‘satisfactory’ categories. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) credits sustained winds of 15-25 kmph for ventilating the atmosphere and improving air circulation.
‘These winds are diluting pollutants at a rapid pace,’ explained an environmental scientist. Fog density has reduced dramatically, boosting visibility from mere 50 meters to comfortable 800 meters in parts of Delhi, Ghaziabad, and Noida.
Temperatures have taken a further plunge, with Delhi recording a low of 7°C this morning, accompanied by breezy conditions. While the cold bite intensifies, the silver lining is breathable air and safer roads, reducing accident risks that plague foggy winters.
Traffic moved briskly on major highways today, a rarity during peak smog season. Flight operations at Delhi’s international airport normalized after days of diversions and delays.
Pollution control boards are optimistic but vigilant. ‘We must capitalize on this window to enforce anti-pollution measures aggressively,’ stated a CPCB spokesperson. Odd-even schemes and construction halts remain in effect.
As the region savors cleaner air, climate experts warn of recurring patterns. Comprehensive policy reforms, including regional clean energy transitions, are essential to break this annual pollution cycle.