Overview
- Delhi’s AQI rose to 354 on Friday and about 368 at 7 am Saturday, with several sites entering the ‘severe’ range including Anand Vihar (442), Patparganj (433), Chandni Chowk (427) and Jahangirpuri (416).
- Stage III actions include a halt on non‑essential construction and demolition, curbs on BS‑III petrol and BS‑IV diesel four‑wheelers in Delhi and key NCR districts, and shutdowns of stone crushers and other high‑dust units.
- Entry of BS‑IV diesel light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi is restricted except for essential services, and diesel generator use is limited to emergencies.
- CAQM ordered NCR pollution control agencies to tighten enforcement with Stage I–II steps continuing, noting Stage III had been lifted on January 2 after short‑term improvement.
- Dense fog and a persistent cold spell cut visibility and delayed flights at IGI Airport, as the Air Quality Early Warning System signaled ‘severe’ conditions through the weekend.