Cold wave and low visibility cause significant travel delays; authorities urge passengers to check updates before travel.
New Delhi, January 5: A thick blanket of fog and cold wave conditions gripped Delhi on Sunday morning, causing major disruptions in flight and train services. The city also recorded a further dip in temperatures, intensifying the winter chill.
At Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), several flights faced delays due to low visibility caused by dense fog.
“While landings and take-offs continue at Delhi Airport, flights that are not CAT III compliant may get affected. Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information. Any inconvenience caused is deeply regretted,” stated an official advisory posted on X by Delhi Airport authorities.
Temperature and Air Quality Update
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 10°C at 5:30 AM on Sunday, slightly lower than Saturday’s 10.2°C.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the capital remained in the ‘very poor’ category, recorded at 377 by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) at 6 AM. This was a marginal improvement from the 385 AQI recorded on Saturday morning.
AQI Classification:
- 0-50: Good
- 51-100: Satisfactory
- 101-200: Moderate
- 201-300: Poor
- 301-400: Very Poor
- 401-500: Severe
Impact on Train Services
Dense fog also disrupted train operations, causing significant delays at New Delhi Railway Station. Passengers have been advised to check updated schedules before travel.
Shelter for Homeless Amid Freezing Cold
With temperatures continuing to drop, many homeless people were seen taking refuge in night shelters across the capital, including facilities set up at Bhikaji Cama Place, AIIMS, Lodhi Road, and Nizamuddin flyover.
The Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB) has established 235 pagoda tents to provide relief to those affected by the harsh weather conditions.
Similar Conditions Across North India
Dense fog and cold wave conditions were also reported across several North Indian states:
- Lucknow: Recorded a minimum temperature of 11°C at 5:30 AM.
- Srinagar: Recorded a chilling -1°C at 5:30 AM.
- Chandigarh: Registered 9.1°C at 5:30 AM.
As the cold wave intensifies, authorities have urged travelers to stay updated about flight and train schedules and to take necessary precautions while stepping out.
