A dense layer of fog blanketed Delhi on Sunday, bringing life to a standstill as flights and trains were delayed across the city. With visibility dropping to zero in several areas, cold wave conditions added to the woes of commuters. The IMD predicts more foggy mornings ahead, with smog lingering through the day and chilly winds sweeping the capital.
By PC Bureau
Fight and train operations in Delhi were severely disrupted on Sunday morning due to a thick layer of fog that reduced visibility to near zero in several areas, according to reports.
At New Delhi railway station, multiple trains, including the Howrah-New Delhi Duronto Express, Mahabodhi Express, Lucknow Mail, and Kathgodam Express, faced significant delays. Over 60 trains were reported late due to the dense fog.
The city also experienced a cold wave, with minimum temperatures dropping to 10°C at 5:30 am, slightly lower than the previous day’s 10.2°C, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
At Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, dense fog caused disruptions in flight operations, particularly affecting non-CAT III-compliant flights. Visuals showed the airport shrouded in fog, and an advisory from the airport urged passengers to check with airlines for updated flight information.
“While landings and take-offs continue, flights that are not CAT III compliant may be affected. We deeply regret any inconvenience caused,” the advisory noted. The CAT III facility enables aircraft to operate in low-visibility conditions.
Rainfall Warning : 06th January 2025
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On Saturday, IGI Airport experienced 19 flight diversions, numerous cancellations, and over 400 delays, marking the second consecutive day of disruptions caused by dense fog.
The IMD forecast for Sunday predicts partly cloudy skies with smog and moderate fog in most areas and dense fog in a few locations during the morning. Winds are expected to blow from the southeast at speeds below 4 kmph in the morning, increasing to 8-10 kmph in the afternoon before dropping again in the evening. Maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to settle around 18°C and 10°C, respectively.
Smog or shallow to moderate fog is also expected during the evening and night hours, the IMD said.
