Thu Jan 16 16:02:50 UTC 2025: ## Delhi’s Foggy Start Improves Air Quality, but Disrupts Travel
**New Delhi, January 16** – Delhi experienced a significant improvement in air quality Thursday morning following light rainfall, easing the city from a “severe” to “poor” AQI (Air Quality Index) level. However, the respite was accompanied by dense fog that caused widespread travel disruptions, affecting 29 trains and numerous flights.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for Delhi, forecasting further light rain showers throughout the day, potentially intensifying the cold weather. Schools, reopened after a cold wave, transitioned to a hybrid learning model due to GRAP 4 measures implemented due to the previously poor air quality.
The minimum temperature reached 10.3 degrees Celsius, and the maximum is expected to stay around 19 degrees. The IMD predicts dense fog will persist on Friday morning. The AQI, which reached a high of 400 on Wednesday, prompting the implementation of GRAP Stage 3 and 4 measures, fell to 288 by Thursday evening. These measures included a shift to hybrid learning in schools.
The IMD forecasts isolated to scattered rainfall across several northern states, including Delhi, between January 20 and 24. While the improved air quality led to speculation about lifting the GRAP restrictions, no official announcement has been made. Authorities advise residents to exercise caution while driving in foggy conditions. Airlines have urged passengers to allow extra travel time due to potential delays.
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