As Delhi faces its longest winter spell, air pollution level in the nation’s capital dipped further.
Winds have reportedly slowed down, and there is an increase in dense fog.
The minimum temperature on Friday touched 4.2 degrees Celsius and the maximum temperature was recorded to be 13.4 degrees Celsius. It is predicted to become colder in the next couple of days.
The air quality index (AQI) on Thursday, as recorded by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)’s 4 pm bulletin, was 349 in the ‘very poor’ zone.
India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the slow average wind speed of 8-10 kmph is not favourable for dispersion of pollutants, and air quality can be expected to improve around December 31 when a light rainfall is expected.
The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) has forecast that the AQI could plunge to ‘severe’ category over the weekend.