The Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) is grappling with severe winter weather as dense fog blankets the region, disrupting air and rail operations and creating challenges for daily commuters. The low visibility, combined with a forecast of rain, has heightened concerns for travel delays and public safety in the days ahead.

Zero Visibility Brings Transport to a Halt

On Friday and Saturday, parts of Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and surrounding areas experienced near-zero visibility due to dense fog, a hallmark of the region’s winter. The thick fog severely impacted flight schedules at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), where over 100 flights were delayed, leaving passengers stranded and frustrated.

The situation wasn’t much better for train travelers, with several trains running hours behind schedule. A railway track crossing near Delhi, shrouded in fog, served as a stark visual of the challenges facing transport services.

Rain Expected to Add to the Chaos

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast for light to moderate rain over the weekend in Delhi-NCR. While the rain may help dissipate the fog, it is likely to introduce its own set of challenges, such as waterlogged roads and slippery conditions. This combination of rain and fog could result in further delays for flights, trains, and road travel.

Commuters and residents are being urged to exercise caution, particularly during early morning and late-night hours when visibility is at its worst.

IGI Airport Activates Low Visibility Protocols

With passenger safety as a priority, the IGI Airport has activated Low Visibility Procedures (LVP) to manage operations during this challenging period. Airlines have issued advisories, urging travelers to check their flight status before heading to the airport. Despite these measures, significant delays and cancellations have been reported, leaving passengers with little choice but to wait for updates.

Train Operations in Disarray

The thick fog has also thrown train schedules into chaos. Passengers at Delhi’s major railway stations faced long waits as several trains were delayed by three hours or more. Railways officials are working to minimize disruptions by deploying extra staff and issuing frequent announcements to keep travelers informed.

Commuters Face Road Hazards

The fog has made road travel particularly dangerous, with numerous reports of minor accidents due to low visibility. Drivers have been advised to use fog lights, maintain safe distances, and avoid speeding to prevent mishaps. Public transport, including buses, has also been affected, with delays adding to commuters’ woes.

The Delhi Metro has become a lifeline for many during this period. While unaffected by fog, the metro has seen an increase in ridership as people opt for safer travel alternatives.

Health Risks Add to Challenges

The combination of dense fog and Delhi’s notoriously poor air quality has created a hazardous environment, particularly for those with respiratory issues. Health experts have advised residents to stay indoors during peak fog hours and to use air purifiers or masks when venturing outside.

Children, the elderly, and individuals with asthma or other lung-related conditions are especially vulnerable during this period.

Tips for Navigating Foggy Weather

Here are some tips to help residents and travelers cope with the current weather conditions:

For Air Travelers:

• Check flight schedules regularly through airline websites or apps.
• Arrive at the airport early to avoid last-minute hassles.

For Train Travelers:

• Stay updated on train schedules via official railway apps or helplines.
• Carry warm clothing and essentials for long waits.

For Drivers:

• Use fog lights and drive at a controlled speed.
• Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and avoid sudden braking.

For Residents:

• Stay indoors during early mornings and evenings.
• Use masks to minimize exposure to poor air quality.

Looking Ahead

As Delhi-NCR endures another spell of winter fog, the IMD warns that conditions are likely to persist for a few days. The region may see a slight improvement in air quality following the expected rainfall, but transportation and public safety challenges will likely remain.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and working to minimize disruptions. Meanwhile, residents are urged to prioritize safety and plan their travel with caution.

While foggy mornings and chilly winds are synonymous with Delhi winters, this year’s weather has been particularly unforgiving. From delayed flights to disrupted train schedules, the city is bracing for a challenging start to the new year. Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.