On January 4, 2024, Delhi and its neighboring regions faced severe disruptions due to dense fog and a biting cold wave. The adverse weather conditions significantly affected air, rail, and road transportation, while the residents struggled to cope with plummeting temperatures and worsening air quality.

Impact on Flight Operations

The thick fog led to the diversion of 15 flights at Indira Gandhi International Airport between 12:15 am and 1:30 am. Although the airport remained operational, flights not equipped with Category III (CAT III) Instrument Landing Systems faced difficulties landing. Airlines like IndiGo temporarily suspended departures and arrivals due to reduced visibility, urging passengers to check real-time updates for flight schedules. Air India also issued alerts about potential delays. Passengers were advised to remain in contact with their airlines for updates.

Train Services Severely Disrupted

Dense fog also caused delays in train operations. As many as 81 trains experienced delays while approaching New Delhi Railway Station. Extended waiting times added to the inconvenience of passengers, and authorities recommended checking real-time train schedules before heading to the station.

Road Traffic Challenges

Road travel in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana was hampered as visibility dropped dramatically. Vehicles moved cautiously through the thick fog, with authorities urging motorists to use fog lights and maintain safe distances to avoid accidents. The cold weather exacerbated the discomfort for commuters.

Cold Wave Conditions

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 7°C in Delhi, marking a severe cold wave. The harsh conditions were expected to persist, with slight relief anticipated in the coming days. Residents were urged to stay warm and take precautions to avoid cold-related health issues.

Air Quality Concerns

Delhi’s air quality continued to be a major concern, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 351, categorizing it as “very poor.” Such levels pose a risk to vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. Health experts advised minimizing outdoor activities and wearing masks to reduce exposure.

Wider Impact Across North India

The adverse weather conditions extended beyond Delhi. In Chandigarh, flight operations were disrupted, and an Abu Dhabi-Chandigarh flight was diverted to Delhi. Other parts of northern India, including Jharkhand, experienced severe cold, with temperatures dropping below 6°C in some areas. Khunti recorded the lowest minimum temperature of 5.3°C. Dry weather was observed across the state, adding to the chilly conditions.

Precautions and Advisories

Authorities issued several advisories to ensure public safety:

Air Travelers: Stay updated with flight schedules and anticipate delays.

Train Passengers: Check the status of trains before heading to stations.

Motorists: Use fog lights, drive cautiously, and maintain safe distances to prevent accidents.

Residents: Keep warm, stay indoors if possible, and monitor local weather updates. Those with respiratory conditions were particularly advised to avoid exposure to poor air quality.

Conclusion

The dense fog and cold wave that gripped Delhi and its surrounding regions on January 4, 2024, caused widespread disruptions and highlighted the need for preparedness during extreme weather events. From flight diversions to delayed trains and challenging road conditions, the impact was far-reaching. Residents and travelers are reminded to stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and take necessary precautions to navigate such challenging conditions safely.