Northern India has been witnessing persistent foggy conditions over the past several days, with early mornings blanketed by thick fog that has significantly reduced visibility. The weather pattern continued on Sunday, causing widespread disruption to air and rail travel, while residents of Delhi also grappled with worsening air pollution and toxic smog.
Fog Continues to Impact Visibility and Travel
Dense fog during early morning hours has become a regular occurrence across several parts of northern India, particularly affecting Delhi and neighbouring regions. The reduced visibility has created challenges for commuters, travellers, and transport authorities alike.
Key impacts observed on Sunday include:
Low visibility conditions at airports and railway stations Slower movement of vehicles during early morning hours Delays in scheduled travel plans for passengers
Over 200 Flights Delayed at Delhi Airport
Air travel was among the worst affected due to foggy conditions.
According to information accessed by HT:
More than 200 flights were delayed at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi by Sunday morning Both domestic and international flights experienced delays Early morning departures were particularly impacted due to poor visibility
Passengers were seen waiting longer than usual as airlines adjusted schedules to ensure safe take-offs and landings.
Rail Services Also Affected
Rail travel across northern India also suffered due to fog-related visibility issues.
According to Northern Railways:
Over 50 trains were delayed on Sunday Several long-distance trains reported delays ranging from 30 minutes to a few hours Fog affected tracks and signalling systems, slowing down train movement
Passengers travelling to and from Delhi experienced extended waiting times at major railway stations.
AAI Issues Advisory for Passengers
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) issued an advisory on Sunday to alert passengers about potential disruptions caused by fog across northern India.
In its advisory, AAI stated:
Fog conditions were affecting visibility at select airports Flight operations could face delays or changes Passengers were urged to stay updated through official airline channels
The advisory further advised travellers to:
Check real-time flight status before leaving for the airport Allow extra time for security checks and boarding procedures Remain patient as airlines prioritise safety
What the Delhi Airport Said
Despite the fog-related disruptions, Delhi airport authorities said that flight operations were continuing as usual, though with caution.
In a passenger advisory issued at 10 AM on Sunday, Delhi airport stated:
Operations at IGI Airport were “normal” Passengers were advised to consult their respective airlines for updated schedules Travellers were encouraged to visit the official airport website for verified information
The advisory, shared on social media platform X, also wished passengers a safe and pleasant journey.
Smog Returns to Delhi, Air Quality Worsens
Alongside fog, Delhi residents woke up to a thick layer of toxic smog on Sunday morning, further reducing visibility and adding to health concerns.
According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):
The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 390 around 7 AM This placed Delhi’s air quality in the ‘very poor’ category
The combination of fog and pollution resulted in a dense haze across the city, making outdoor conditions uncomfortable for residents.
Several Areas Record ‘Severe’ Pollution Levels
While the citywide AQI remained in the very poor range, air quality deteriorated further in multiple localities.
Key observations include:
Several areas recorded AQI levels in the ‘severe’ category Visibility remained extremely low in early morning hours Residents reported eye irritation, breathing discomfort, and throat irritation
The pollution-fog mix, commonly referred to as smog, continued to linger despite slight improvement later in the day.
Health and Safety Concerns Rise
Medical experts have repeatedly warned that prolonged exposure to poor air quality can lead to serious health issues.
Potential health impacts include:
Respiratory problems, especially among children and elderly Increased risk for asthma and bronchitis patients Eye and skin irritation due to high pollution levels
Authorities have advised residents to limit outdoor activities, especially during early morning hours when pollution and fog are at their peak.
Travel Advisory for Commuters
Given the ongoing weather and pollution conditions, travellers and daily commuters are advised to take precautions:
Plan journeys with extra buffer time Monitor flight and train updates regularly Use masks, especially for those sensitive to pollution Avoid non-essential travel during early morning hours
Weather Pattern Likely to Continue
Meteorological experts suggest that the foggy conditions may persist for the next few days due to low temperatures, high moisture levels, and calm wind patterns across northern India.
This means:
Continued delays in air and rail travel Persistent smog formation in urban areas like Delhi Ongoing health and visibility concerns
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