Dense fog engulfed parts of Delhi on Thursday morning, leading to disruptions at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport and delays for over 18 trains, as the city continued to battle a cold wave. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 7 degrees Celsius, along with dense fog, contributing to low visibility in many areas.
To manage the reduced visibility, Delhi Airport implemented Low Visibility Procedures (LVP) early on Thursday. However, all flight operations remained on schedule, according to an official advisory from the airport. In a statement posted on social media platform X, Delhi Airport reassured passengers that flight operations were normal, but advised travelers to stay updated with their airline for any flight changes or delays.
“Low Visibility Procedures are in progress at Delhi Airport. All flight operations are presently normal,” the advisory read. Passengers were urged to contact airlines directly for the latest flight updates.
The weather department also forecasted that dense fog conditions would persist in the late-night and early-morning hours of December 26 and 28. While fog was expected to ease later in the day, light rain could occur in the evening or night, contributing to the already challenging conditions.
Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the ‘very poor’ category, with a recorded AQI of 372 at 8 a.m. on Thursday, a slight increase from 360 on Wednesday. Areas such as Anand Vihar, Ashok Vihar, and Bawana reported AQI levels well into the ‘very poor’ range, prompting concerns about air quality. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) classified the AQI between 301 and 400 as ‘very poor’ and levels above 400 as ‘severe.’
The AQI has been a major concern for the city’s residents, particularly as the winter season sees an increase in pollution due to smog and low visibility. The authorities had previously revoked Stage IV (‘Severe’) measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Tuesday, following an improvement in air quality. However, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) announced on December 24 that actions under Stages I, II, and III would remain in effect to prevent further deterioration.
In addition to flight disruptions, at least 18 trains traveling to Delhi from different parts of the country were delayed due to the fog. Some of the trains affected include the Avadh Assam Express, Unchahar Express, Vikramshila Express, Sampoorna Kranti Express, and Shiv Ganga Express. Passengers on these trains have been advised to stay informed about updated schedules.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as the cold wave and fog continue to impact the region, and passengers are urged to plan their journeys with extra caution.
Sources By Agencies
