Dense Fog Disrupts Train Services and Flights in Delhi and NCR

On Wednesday, thick fog covered several parts of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), leading to poor visibility conditions and causing major disruptions in transportation. The dense fog, combined with a cold wave, resulted in delays for over 100 flights and 26 trains in the area. Noida and Ghaziabad, in particular, experienced zero visibility during the morning hours, making it difficult for people to commute and travel.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had forecasted light rain or drizzle in Delhi, and the weather conditions were expected to remain cold. The minimum temperature was predicted to be around 9°C, with the maximum reaching 19°C.

Delayed Trains and Flights

As a result of the thick fog, 26 trains were delayed by significant amounts of time. Some of the most delayed trains included the Bihar S Kranti (delayed by 205 minutes), the Mahabodhi Express (delayed by 328 minutes), and the Gorakhdham Express (delayed by 230 minutes). The delays affected many travelers, particularly those with long-distance journeys.

In addition to trains, more than 100 flights were delayed at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. Airport officials confirmed that no flights had been diverted or canceled, but low visibility caused delays in takeoffs and landings. The Delhi Airport issued an advisory, stating that flights not equipped with CAT III technology might be impacted. CAT III technology helps planes operate in low-visibility conditions, ensuring safer takeoffs and landings.

Airlines like IndiGo also warned passengers about possible delays due to the fog, urging them to stay updated on flight statuses through airline websites and apps.

Delayed Trains List

Here’s a list of the 26 delayed trains due to the fog:

Impact on Daily Life

The dense fog affected everyday life in Delhi as well. Popular areas like Dhaula Kuan, India Gate, Nirankari Colony, and Shankar Vihar were visibly covered in fog, making travel on roads hazardous. The IMD also mentioned that shallow fog or smog was expected to return in the evening and night, creating challenging conditions for travelers.

Weather Outlook

The IMD further predicted that the fog and cold conditions would continue in Delhi and NCR, as well as in neighboring states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan, for the next two to three days. The southeast wind was expected to remain weak during the morning but would pick up speed later in the day, with calm winds again in the evening.

#WATCH | Delhi | A dense layer of fog engulfs the national capital as cold wave intensifies in Northern India.

Visuals from India Gate and surrounding areas pic.twitter.com/X4mpFsSCRt

— ANI (@ANI) January 15, 2025

Conclusion

The ongoing fog and cold weather in Delhi and NCR are causing major delays in travel, especially for train and air passengers. Authorities have urged travelers to stay updated on flight and train schedules. The dense fog is expected to persist, affecting daily routines and transportation for the next few days.