New Delhi, February 1, 2025 – The national capital and surrounding regions woke up to a thick blanket of fog on Thursday morning, leading to major disruptions in air and rail transport. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert, warning of dense to very dense fog in Delhi-NCR and parts of North India. The extreme weather conditions have significantly affected visibility, delaying flights, slowing down train schedules, and impacting road travel.
Flight Disruptions at Delhi Airport
The severe fog reduced visibility at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) to as low as 50 meters, resulting in the delay of over 140 flights. Many domestic and international flights were either rescheduled or canceled due to operational difficulties caused by poor visibility.
What Passengers Should Do:
- Check Flight Status: Travelers are advised to check their flight status on airline websites or airport information desks before heading to the airport.
- Arrive Early: Given the disruptions, passengers should arrive well in advance to account for delays in security checks and boarding procedures.
- Expect Rescheduling: Airlines have been reworking schedules, and passengers may be accommodated on alternative flights.
Airport authorities have deployed additional staff to manage the situation and assist affected travelers.
Railway Delays: Over 25 Trains Running Late
Fog has also wreaked havoc on railway operations, with at least 26 Delhi-bound trains running significantly late. Some trains have been delayed by over five hours.
Major Delays Reported:
- Mahabodhi Express: Delayed by over 328 minutes
- Bihar S Kranti Express: Running over 3 hours late
- Shram Shakti Express: Delayed by 120+ minutes
Advice for Train Passengers:
- Track Train Status Online: Use the NTES app or the Indian Railways website to check live train updates.
- Be Prepared for Long Waits: Passengers should carry essentials like food, water, and warm clothing in case of extended waiting periods.
Railway authorities are actively monitoring the situation and adjusting schedules as necessary.
Delhi-NCR Road Travel and Safety Measures
Delhi’s roads also saw major traffic congestion, particularly on highways and flyovers, due to limited visibility. Fog lights and low-beam headlights were essential for safe driving in the affected areas.
IMD’s Safety Recommendations for Motorists:
✅ Use fog lights and keep hazard lights on while driving in low-visibility conditions.
✅ Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid sudden collisions.
✅ Avoid high speeds and unnecessary lane changes.
✅ Stay updated with traffic advisories issued by local authorities.
Traffic police have been deployed across key areas to regulate movement and prevent accidents.
IMD Forecast and Expected Weather Conditions
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that dense fog will persist for the next few days, especially during the early morning and late-night hours. Additionally, a rain alert has been issued for February 2 and 3, which may lead to further disruptions.
Key Weather Forecasts:
- Temperature: Expected to hover between 7°C and 17°C in the coming days.
- Fog Duration: Thick fog likely between midnight and 10 AM over the next 48 hours.
- Rain Possibility: Light to moderate showers expected, which could clear fog but bring down temperatures further.
The IMD advises residents to take necessary precautions and stay informed about real-time updates through their official channels.
Why This Matters: The Impact of Fog on Delhi’s Daily Life
Economic and Business Impact
- Flight and train delays affect business travelers, causing disruption to meetings and schedules.
- Logistics and supply chain industries face challenges as transport delays slow down deliveries.
- A drop in outdoor commercial activities and shopping due to extreme weather conditions.
Health and Environmental Concerns
- Prolonged exposure to cold air and fog may aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis.
- The fog, mixed with pollution particles, further deteriorates Delhi’s air quality, posing health risks to vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
- People with respiratory issues should wear masks, avoid early morning outdoor activities, and use air purifiers indoors.
Final Advice: Stay Updated and Take Precautions
With continued fog and possible rain on the horizon, Delhi residents and travelers should plan their commutes carefully. Keep track of real-time updates from the IMD, airlines, and railway authorities to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.
For the latest updates, travelers can check:
🔹 Delhi Airport Website – www.newdelhiairport.in
🔹 Indian Railways NTES App – www.indianrail.gov.in
🔹 IMD Weather Updates – www.imd.gov.in
As the weather situation evolves, staying informed and adopting safe travel practices will help navigate this challenging period.